From Bump to Birth: A Vet Cross Guide to Dog Pregnancy & Whelping in Bundaberg

At Vet Cross, we regularly support dogs and their families through pregnancy and whelping — whether the litter was carefully planned or a complete surprise. Knowing what is normal, what to expect, and when to seek help can make all the difference for mum and her puppies.

This guide explains the stages of dog pregnancy and labour (whelping), how to prepare at home, and when to contact your Bundaberg vet for advice or urgent care.

Before labour begins, it’s best to be prepared.

We recommend having:

• A warm, quiet whelping box in a low stress area
• Clean towels or cloths
• A thermometer
• Your vet clinic’s phone number saved (including after hours details)
• A transport plan in case mum or a puppy needs veterinary care

Duration: 12-36 hours

In the final days of pregnancy, mum will begin preparing for her puppies. Common signs include:

• Seeking quiet or hidden places
• Restlessness
• Digging or circling
• Trying to create a safe “den”

This behaviour is known as nesting. Providing a comfortable whelping area early can prevent her choosing inconvenient places such as wardrobes or under beds.

Temperature drop

A drop in body temperature — usually below 37°C — often occurs about 24 hours before labour begins. We recommend checking mum’s temperature daily during the final week of pregnancy.

Duration: A few hours, depending on litter size

This is when puppies are delivered. Signs include:

• Restlessness or agitation
• Licking the vulva
• Strong abdominal contractions
• Lying down and straining

Once Stage 2 begins, puppies should usually arrive approximately every 30 minutes. If it has been 60 minutes and no more puppies delivered call your vet immediately as it could be an emergency. This is why knowing how many puppies are in the litter before labour begins is important.

Each puppy is born inside a fluid filled sac (water bag). This often breaks naturally or is opened by mum. If it does not, you may need to gently tear the sac open so the puppy can breathe.

Once all puppies are delivered, mum should:

• Clean the puppies
• Remove remaining membranes
• Begin feeding them

It is normal to see bloody discharge for a few days after whelping.

Knowing the expected litter size is important — it helps determine whether labour is complete or if veterinary assistance is needed.

If you are ever unsure, contact Vet Cross for advice.

No signs of labour past the due date

This may be due to incorrect timing, delayed labour, complications, or pregnancy loss. A veterinary examination, X ray, or ultrasound may be required.

Labour slows or stops

Seek veterinary help if:

• There is no progress for 60 minutes
• A puppy is partially delivered but stuck
• Mum stops pushing or appears exhausted

These situations may be caused by a stuck puppy, uterine fatigue (common in large litters), or hormonal issues. Treatment may include assistance, medication, or a caesarean section.

The water bag does not break

If mum does not open the sac herself, gently tear it open so the puppy can breathe.
To stimulate the puppy:

• Support the head and body
• Rub firmly with a clean towel to dry and encourage breathing

Puppies are not breathing or vocalising

This may indicate fluid in the lungs or inadequate stimulation. Rub the puppy vigorously with a towel and seek veterinary care immediately if you are concerned.

Mum is scared, inattentive, or rejecting puppies

Some dogs — especially first time mums — may struggle initially.
Monitor closely to ensure she is:

• Feeding the puppies
• Cleaning and toileting them
• Handling them gently
• Not showing fear or aggression

If puppies are rejected, hand raising may be required with veterinary guidance.

Feeding

• Puppies should feed every 2 hours, including overnight, for the first 2 weeks
• Healthy puppies should gain 5-10% of their body weight daily

If weight gain is poor, supplementation or full hand raising may be required using a high quality milk replacer such as Divetalac or Wombaroo.

Nutrition

Once weaned, puppies should be fed a high quality puppy diet to support healthy growth and development.

Worming

Puppies should be wormed every 2 weeks from 2 weeks of age. We commonly recommend Drontal Puppy Liquid or tablets, depending on size.

Vaccination & Microchipping

Vaccination and microchipping begin at 8 weeks of age. Please contact Vet Cross to book your puppy appointments.

Breeder Identification Number (BIN)

In Queensland, all breeders — including accidental litters — must have a Breeder Identification Number (BIN). This is a legal requirement that supports traceability and animal welfare.

You can apply online through the Queensland Government.

Every pregnancy and whelping is different. If you are concerned at any stage — before, during, or after labour — please contact Vet Cross. Early veterinary care can save lives and give both mum and puppies the best possible start.

Vet Cross — supporting Bundaberg pets and their families through every stage of life.