Watching for the Signs of Labor

There are some signs to be on the look out for leading to the day the bitch will be delivered of her puppies and these signs can be very helpful to the knowledgeable dog breeder.

A few days before the bitch is ready to give birth, she may stop eating and start building a "nest" where she plans to have her puppies -- if introduced properly, this should be in the whelping box you have prepared for her.

Shortly before whelping, the bitch's body temperature will drop to 99 degrees or lower (from a normal temperature of 100 to 102.5).

Approximately 24 hours after her temperature drops, she can be expected to enter the first stage of labor when the cervix dilates and opens the birth canal for the passage of puppies. At this time, she will pant, strain, and appear restless. This stage of labor is followed by actual abdominal straining and production of the puppies and placentas.

You should have on hand your veterinarian's phone number and the local emergency clinic. This is a very important dog breeding knowledge.

Dog Breeding Info:Steps for Successful Dog Breeding

http://www.aboutdogfacts.com/dog-breeding-info

Dog facts