What is the mother dog’s whelping (birth) process?
Expert Answer
Before birth she’s restless, pacing to find a quiet nest. The uterus contracts strongly with panting and whining. As contractions intensify, the first puppy passes the birth canal wrapped in membranes.
She licks open the membranes, bites the cord, and cleans the pup to stimulate breathing. Pups come every 20–40 min; if over an hour passes with none, contact a vet for possible dystocia.
My girl's whelping ran from restlessness and nesting to labor and pups over hours, and I prepped a quiet box and had the vet on call. I'd learn the stages and warning signs, straining too long, green discharge, weakness, and never leave her alone the first time. Having towels, a heat lamp, and the clinic number ready made it smoother, and I'd only step in if something's clearly wrong, otherwise let her do it.