How to Deliver Puppies at Home

Want to know how to deliver your dogs puppies? Although it can be done without your intervention, there are a number of things that you can do to increase the comfort and survival rate of your dogs puppies. Here are a few tips on how to deliver puppies correctly.

Things You'll Need

  • Thermometer
  • Sterilized scissors
  • Bedding material
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Instructions

    • 1

      Make a home for the puppies. This is where the puppies will live for the first several weeks of their life. Fill a large cardboard box with newspaper or old blankets. I recommend using a large plastic laundry hamper as it's breathable and a little more durable.

    • 2

      Check the temperature of your mother-to-be anally. As soon as your dogs temperature reaches 38 degrees Celsius, labor should begin within the next 24 hours.

    • 3

      Make your dog comfortable and give her space. A lot of people present during labor can often scare your dog and complicate the delivery.

    • 4

      Clean the puppies after they have been delivered. Make sure the membrane sacks have been removed so the puppies have clear breathing passages. The mother will usually tear the sacs open herself but sometimes you will have to take it upon yourself. Gently pop the membrane and remove the lining from the puppy.

    • 5

      Using a Sterilized pair of scissors, cut the umbilical cord 2 inches from the puppies stomach. To sterilize the scissors, boil them in water or dip them In rubbing alcohol.

    • 6

      Make sure the puppies are being fed by the mother. If she has not nursed her puppies within the first day, consult your veterinarian and obtain a milk supplement.