Immediately After Birth:
* Recovery: Your dog will be exhausted after labor. She will likely want to rest and may be shaky or even a little confused.
* Afterbirth: The placenta (afterbirth) should be expelled after each puppy. Count the placentas to ensure all puppies have been born. Keep an eye out for any retained placentas, which can cause infection.
* Nursing: Ideally, within the first hour, your dog will start nursing her pups. This is crucial for their survival as they need colostrum, the first milk, which contains antibodies for immunity.
* Check on the Puppies: Make sure all puppies are breathing, have a strong heartbeat, and are nursing well.
First 24 Hours:
* Monitoring: Keep a close watch on both your dog and her pups during the first 24 hours.
* Temperature: Ensure the puppies' body temperature is stable (around 95-98°F). If necessary, use a heating pad or incubator to keep them warm.
* Weight: Weigh each puppy individually to monitor their growth.
* Cleanliness: Your dog will instinctively clean her puppies. You can help by gently wiping their faces and bottoms with a damp cloth.
* Eating and Drinking: Encourage your dog to eat and drink plenty of fluids to recover her strength. Offer her nutritious food and fresh water.
First Week:
* Rest: Continue to provide your dog with a quiet, comfortable place to rest and nurse her pups.
* Cleaning: Keep the whelping area clean by changing bedding regularly.
* Nutrition: Feed your dog a high-quality diet, tailored to her needs during lactation. She will need extra calories and nutrients.
* Puppies' Growth: Monitor the puppies' weight, growth, and development. Ensure they are gaining weight and have regular bowel movements.
* First Vet Visit: Schedule a veterinary checkup for both the mother and puppies within the first week to ensure they are healthy and thriving.
Beyond the First Week:
* Socialization: Start introducing the puppies to gentle handling and new sights and sounds. This helps them develop into well-adjusted dogs.
* Vaccinations and Deworming: Follow your veterinarian's recommendations for puppy vaccinations and deworming.
* Weaning: Gradually wean the puppies from their mother's milk starting around 4-6 weeks of age.
Potential Complications:
* Retained Placenta: If the placenta isn't expelled, it can lead to infection.
* Mastitis: Inflammation of the mammary glands can occur, usually due to blocked milk ducts.
* Uterine Prolapse: This is a serious condition where the uterus protrudes from the vagina.
* Puppy Problems: Puppies can experience breathing difficulties, hypothermia, or other health issues.
Important Notes:
* It's essential to have a veterinarian's contact information on hand in case of emergencies.
* Be prepared to provide constant care and attention to both your dog and her puppies during this time.
* If you have any concerns about your dog or her puppies, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Remember, this is a guide, and every dog and litter are different. Your veterinarian will provide personalized advice and support throughout this exciting time. Enjoy the miracle of new life!