How Can I Tell If My Chihuahua Is Whelping?

Whelping is the labor and birth process in dogs. If you bred purposely, and the dog starts showing symptoms around the 63rd day after mating, it probably is whelping. However, chihuahuas are prone to hypoglycemia, especially near the end of pregnancy. Hypoglycemic shakes can be easily confused with whelping. Eclampsia is another disorder that occurs during or after labor and includes shaking. Chihuahuas are also particularly prone to this condition, which is caused by a lack of calcium.

Things You'll Need

  • Thermometer
  • Calcium supplement
  • Whelping box
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Instructions

    • 1

      Take your chihuahua's temperature rectally, beginning on the 49th day after breeding. The dog's temperature normally is about 100. Once it has dropped to 98 to 99 degrees, your dog is within 24 hours of giving birth. If you do not know when mating occurred, take its temperature if you notice shaking. If your dog's temperature is normal but breathing is slow and labored instead of rapid panting, it probably is having a hypoglycemic attack. Seek veterinary care immediately.

    • 2

      Observe your chihuahua carefully for signs of restlessness. It may follow you wherever you go the day whelping begins. It may lick its vulva frequently and refuse food and may start nesting in its whelping box. These signs indicate the first stage of labor and can last for up to 24 hours. Give your dog a calcium supplement at this time. If your dog exhibits stiff movements, an unsteady gait, or appears disoriented, it may be experiencing eclampsia.

    • 3

      Watch for a clear vaginal discharge, along with strong contractions. Vomiting and frequent bowel movements are common during this stage. Soon part of the amniotic sac should be visible, followed by the puppy within. If it has been 45 minutes or more and the puppy has not appeared, call a veterinarian to see if a Cesarean section may be necessary. Chihuahuas have small bodies with large heads, which can make whelping difficult.