What is the first sign that a dog is in labor?

Answer 1

Begin taking her rectal temperature a week before her due date. This will help to narrow down the time frame of the birth. When her temp drops to about 98 degrees, the labor will begin shortly thereafter--within 24 hours. (Normal dog's temp is 101-103.) She will become restless, a little nervous and may shiver. She will also exhibit a desire to nest...nudging bedding with her nose to build up a comfortable spot. Place her in a whelping pen large enough for her to move around comfortably, and that will accommodate the pups for many weeks after. The walls should be high enough for the pups to remain safely inside, and low enough for mom to go in and out as needed. Breathing will become a little heavier during contractions and she will pant. She may or may not lie down, rest and/or sleep in between contractions in the early stage. Once hard labor begins, she will likely sit and pant, and may shiver as well. She may begin to lick herself as she prepares for the puppies to be born. If your dog is super interactive with you, she may desire you to be near her for comfort. Give her space, but be close at hand as needed. She can clean and feed the puppies without any help.

Answer 2

She will start to pant furiously and maybe start to shiver when the birth is imminent. If she needs to go outside be sure to put her on a lead and carry a towel with you in case she goes into labour outside. That way you can wrap up the puppy and take her to her whelping box to birth the others. Her temperature may also go up and will lick herself more often when she is ready to have the pups.

Answer 3

The first imminent sign of a dog giving labour is a drop in body temperature, but there are other signs to also look for, including the female vomiting and rejecting food a couple of hours before giving birth, as well as frequently making and unmaking her bed. The female will also become more nervous and will not tolerate the presence of other dogs around and may even become aggressive towards them. She will also start to lick her vulva constantly and finally will start getting contractions.