Help! My Dog Is About to Give Birth! (Vet Answered)
This question has been answered by a vet
Veterinarian & Animal Behaviorist
With nearly two decades in veterinary medicine, Dr. Paola brings hands-on experience across multiple species. A graduate of the University of Guadalajara, she specializes in preventive care, animal welfare, and positive reinforcement training.
The Question
“Dear Dr. Paola,
What should I do when my dog Lola gives birth?” – Kevin
Quick Info about Lola
Hi Kevin,
The best way to prepare for Lola giving birth starts well before labor begins. Regular veterinary visits during pregnancy are essential because they allow your vet to confirm the pregnancy, estimate the due date, and assess the number and positioning of puppies through imaging. These check-ups can detect potential risks early, such as a narrow birth canal or unusually large puppies, giving you time to plan for a safe delivery. Your veterinarian can also guide you on Lola’s nutrition, parasite prevention, and exercise so she enters labor in the best possible condition.
When labor starts, create a quiet, warm, and comfortable whelping area where she feels safe. Most dogs handle whelping instinctively, but you should monitor from a short distance, making sure puppies are delivered at steady intervals and are breathing and nursing soon after birth. If she has strong contractions for more than 30 minutes without producing a puppy, rests for over two hours between puppies when you know more are coming, or seems exhausted or distressed, seek veterinary care immediately.
After birth, ensure all puppies are breathing well, staying warm, and nursing frequently. Let Lola bond with them, but check briefly that each is thriving. Being well-prepared through prenatal care and knowing what is normal during delivery is the best way to protect both Lola and her newborns.
Best wishes,
– Dr. Paola