My pregnant dog is restless and cuddly. Is she going into labor?

It sounds like she might be showing signs of early labor, but it also could be normal behavior for the end of pregnancy. I would recommend seeing your veterinarian for an exam and an x-ray if you haven't already seen them recently - it is very helpful to take an x-ray to count puppies late in pregnancy. That way you know approximately how many puppies to expect. You should also start checking her rectal temperature with a well lubricated digital thermometer three times a day to establish a baseline (make sure it's at the same time every day) - usually a dog's baseline temperature will drop by one full degree prior to labor. If Luna's temperature drops but you don't see puppies within 24 hours you should see a veterinarian to make sure everything is okay.

It certainly sounds like Xena may be showing signs of stage 1 labor. It would be a good idea to start monitoring her rectal temperature - I typically recommend checking 2-3 times a day. You can establish a baseline and if and when her temperature drops by 1 full degree it is usually a pretty good indicator that you should see puppies within 24 hours. This article might also help: https://www.petcoach.co/article/whelping-giving-birth-in-dogs/

It sounds like Harley is preparing for birth. Average gestation is 63 to 65 days , but parturition (birth) can happen anytime from 58 to 68 days. When the temperature drops by about 1 degree Fahrenheit from her normal temperature you can expect her to give birth within 24 to 48 hours. This is not a 100% surefire determination, so do not panic if it takes a bit longer. Watch her for building a nest, dripping milk, and general nervousness. These will also be signs of an impending birth. Here is some useful information: https://www.petcoach.co/article/whelping-giving-birth-in-dogs/

Unfortunately it is difficult to say when exactly her delivery date is. Even with an ultrasound or X-ray, you cannot say for sure. If her belly looks big and rounded then I would say she is closer - probably expecting around the 1-2 weeks. Again, I cannot guarantee that because it all depends on how big the dad was as well. Just continue to give her lots of love and if you are okay with having the pups inside your house or in a safe area of your garage I would put some soft blankets or even a large plastic bin or kiddy pool with a lot of bedding in it now so she can get use to it. It isn’t guaranteed that she will choose to use that area but hopefully she will! Also, I would start transitioning (mix old food with new food for 7-10 days) her to puppy food as she will need the extra calories and nitrition while nursing her pups. I hope this helps.

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Shadow. She is likely displaying nesting behavior. This is an early sign of labor. Body temperature typically drops below 99 degrees approximately 24 hours prior to delivering the puppies. She appears close to this drop. I recommend monitoring her closely as I suspect she will have the puppies soon. However, if you are concerned, please contact her veterinarian. They will know her specific case details and can give you more accurate recommendations. I hope this information helps!

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Snowy. She is likely getting close to delivering her pups. Most dogs will pant, pace and become restless in the hours leading up to labor. You can also monitor her body temperature. Usually the temperature will drop below 99 degrees Fahrenheit approximately 24 hours before labor. I hope this information helps!

Hello, congratulations on your coming pups. You should check her once every hour or so. If she is going into labor, then you will see active abdominal contractions, and the puppies should be born within 2 hours. If 2 hours of contractions have passed, then contact your emergency veterinarian to discuss with them if you should bring her in to be evaluated. Otherwise, make sure she has a warm area that she can easily access to have her puppies. Once the puppies are born, you can help her clean the puppies and make sure they can all nurse. Hope this helps and best of luck.