Female dogs experience a variety of changes as their bodies adjust to the postpartum, or post-pregnancy phase, especially as puppies nurse. While most dogs transition from pregnancy to nursing with few problems, some dogs with large litters develop a condition called eclampsia, or milk fever. In the early stages, this life-threatening condition is marked by obvious breathing changes, particularly excessive panting, according to the Merck Veterinary Manual.
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Significance
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Heavy panting that begins shortly after delivery is not normal. Dogs that develop panting and other symptoms due to eclampsia show the first signs several weeks after whelping, according to Dog Illness & Symptoms. Although any breed of dog can develop eclampsia, smaller dogs with a large number of pups are more susceptible. When panting progresses to restlessness, anxious behavior and muscle weakness, veterinary care is required to save the dog's life.
Development
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Eclampsia develops when a dog's blood level of calcium falls dangerously low. As a dog nurses, internal calcium is transferred to enrich puppy milk. When the dog does not receive enough calcium from its diet, the body pulls calcium out of the blood stream and muscles to use for milk, according to Pet Alert. This eventually leads to muscle tremors, weakness and convulsions in the later stages.
Treatment
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A veterinarian will consider eclampsia an emergency and administer calcium intravenously, according to the Merck Veterinary Manual. The vet will monitor the heart during this process to be sure the dog does not receive too much calcium too quickly. The dog should respond almost immediately to restored levels of calcium in the blood. Back at home, puppies should not be allowed to nurse for 24 hours; a milk substitute should be used instead. If puppies resume nursing, the dog should be given calcium supplements, and Vitamin D can be added to help the intestines absorb the most calcium. A vet can determine the best dosages of each.
Prevention
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Dogs that develop eclampsia after a first pregnancy are likely to do so again. These dogs should be supported with nutritional supplements during subsequent pregnancies, especially calcium, according to the Merck Veterinary Manual. However, it's possible to supplement with too much calcium during pregnancy, according to Pet Education, so consult your vet about how much of this mineral a pregnant dog requires. After delivery, a dog should be given extra calcium as long as nursing continues.
Warning
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If you suspect a dog has developed eclampsia while nursing, do not try to treat the condition at home. Once panting and other symptoms become apparent, seek emergency veterinary care.
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