Early Labor Symptoms in a Pregnant Dog

Pregnancy in dogs lasts between 58 and 68 days, according to Mar Vista Animal Medical Center in Los Angeles. Toward the end of the dog̵7;s gestation period and at the beginning of labor, owners and veterinarians see specific behaviors that suggest the puppies are on their way to being born. Recognizing these symptoms helps owners prepare themselves for their dog̵7;s impending labor.

  1. Decreased Temperature

    • Approximately 24 hours before labor, the pregnant dog̵7;s temperature drops slightly, according to Mar Vista Animal Medical Center. Normally, a dog̵7;s temperature is 101 to 102 degrees Fahrenheit, but before labor the dog's temperature drops below 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

    Nesting

    • The nesting stage occurs early on in the dog̵7;s labor, says veterinarian Dr. Nicholas Dodman on PetPlace.com. Nesting occurs anywhere from a few days before labor to right before the dog gives birth. The dog is preparing an area in which to safely deliver her puppies, and hormones such as progesterone cause this behavior, according to Dr. Dodman.

    Anxious Behavior

    • One of the early stages of labor is when the dog̵7;s cervix begins to dilate, writes Texas veterinarian Dr. Ronald Hines on his website, 2ndChance.info. This is when the dog̵7;s uterine contractions start, and is an uncomfortable and painful stage for the dog. Anxious behavior symptoms to watch out for include whining, pacing, shivering, panting, vomiting and digging, says Mar Vista Animal Medical Center.