How to Prepare
First, you should talk to your veterinarian about the process. It is important to understand the potential risks and be able to identify signs of complications. Its best to find a vet in advance that has experience and interest in canine reproduction. Ideally, your vet will have been checking on your dog throughout the pregnancy. The vet will talk to you about preparation and may also be able to help you find the right supplies. It is also a good idea to talk to an experienced dog breeder and consider having that person present for the birth.
What Does It Mean When a Pregnant Dog Is Shaking?
Shaking in pregnant dogs usually means they are in labor and the first puppy is on its way. Pregnant dogs also shake for other reasons that are unrelated to giving birth. The most common ones are cold, pain, or illness.
The most common reason why pregnant dogs shake is that they are going into labor. Shaking is a natural response as giving birth involves heavy physical strain on the body.
Shaking can vary from mild to intense and can last tens of minutes.
Shaking during labor happens for several reasons:
If this is your dog’s first litter, make sure there’s a vet to monitor the birthing. Some females have a narrower pelvis, which can make it difficult for chubby puppies to come out. They can get stuck and suffocate if not intervened.
The same thing can happen when small dogs breed with large dogs. The puppies are usually too big for normal birthing, so the vet may recommend a C-section.
How do you help a dog give birth for the first time?
When your dog first goes into labor, the best thing you can do is keep your distance while quietly observing her. It may surprise you to learn that dogs don’t typically need much help giving birth. In fact, it can be quite fascinating to watch a dog’s instincts take over as they whelp and nurse their young.
HOW TO TELL WHEN YOUR DOG IS GOING TO GIVE BIRTH!!!
When you find out your dog is pregnant, it can be both an exciting and nerve-wracking time. We know how complicated human pregnancy can become, so we assume that pregnancy and labor for dogs is just as complicated.
If you’re starting to get nervous about your dog giving birth, we have good news for you…98% of dogs give birth by themselves with zero complications.
However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be prepared for the birth. Dogs give very clear signs that they are soon going into labor. It’s important to watch for these signs so you don’t leave your dog alone during the birthing process.
Canine pregnancy typically lasts 56-69 days. You should begin looking for signs of labor around day 49 (7 weeks).