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Temperature Drops
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Establish your dog's normal temperature by starting two weeks before she is due and record it daily. Make sure you take her temperature at the same time each day to ensure an accurate reading.
The first sign your dog is going into labor is a drop in temperature 100 degrees. She will then deliver her pups in less than 24 hours.
Refusing Food
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The second sign is that she will start to refuse food. This is more easily observed than the drop in temperature. Dogs love to eat, so this may appear abnormal. But it is a good sign she is going into labor.
Preparing the Den
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Dogs feel a need to prepare their "den" just before giving birth. It is important to find a secure, quiet place for this activity. A bathroom is a good place where she can be closed off from the rest of the house. There she will arrange her bedding over and over again until she is satisfied.
Shivering and Sickness
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Your dog will appear uncomfortable and restless. She may shiver, pant and even vomit. While this may seem alarming, it is normal and the next sign she is going to give birth. Some dogs may even whine continuously. Allow her plenty of access to water so she can stay hydrated.
Erratic Behavior
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Your dog may exhibit erratic behavior. She may follow you everywhere, refusing to leave your side. She may hide from strangers or other visitors and become extremely aggressive guarding her den from other people and animals, especially dogs. She may also look at her rump and act as if she lost something.
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Signs My Dog Is Going to Give Brith
The average length of pregnancy in dogs is 63 days. Some smaller breeds will deliver a week early, and some larger breeds a week later. The average temperature for a healthy dog is between 101 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. Knowing your dog's normal temperature is important to understanding when your dog is ready to give birth.