Signs Your Pregnant Dog's Labor Isn't Going As Planned

As your dog nears the end of her pregnancy, it's completely normal to feel a little anxious, especially if you're unsure what to expect. Most dogs give birth without complications, but things don't always go perfectly. And sadly, some dogs are more likely to experience complications. These include small breeds, first-time moms, and those carrying large litters, and for these dogs, it's especially important to understand the signs that a dog is ready to go into labor and when things may be taking an unusual turn. Some red flags are more obvious, like strong straining with no puppy after 30 minutes. Others, like green discharge or sudden exhaustion, can be easy to overlook.

Of course, not every unusual moment means there's an emergency. Labor doesn't follow the exact same timeline for every dog, but knowing what to watch for and when to call your vet can make a big difference in keeping both mom and her puppies safe.

Once your dog's water breaks and she's ready to deliver her pups, there should only be a short time before they start appearing. Strong, repeated straining is usually a sign that a puppy is on the way. However, if more than 30 minutes pass with no progress, your dog may need veterinary help. A puppy may be stuck in the birth canal, positioned incorrectly, or too large to pass through. In these cases, prompt veterinary care is usually needed to prevent further complications.

This kind of complication is called dystocia, and it's a common emergency during labor (at least compared to other emergencies). Small breeds are especially prone to it, but it can happen to any dog. In addition to strong straining without producing a puppy, signs include crying and repeated licking of the vulva.

If your dog has already delivered some puppies and then takes a break, monitor how long it lasts. Resting between deliveries is normal, but she shouldn't return to straining without progress. When that happens, acting quickly helps reduce the risk of exhaustion, stillbirth, or added stress for both mom and her puppies.

Some discharge from a pregnant dog is normal during labor, especially after the first puppy has arrived. But if your dog produces green, black, or foul-smelling fluid before delivering any puppies, it may be a sign of complications. Discharge like this can mean that a placenta has detached too early, which can lead to a decline in oxygen supply for the puppies. You should reach out to your vet as soon as possible if this happens.

A greenish liquid called uteroverdin is normally released when the placenta detaches during delivery. It helps separate the placenta from the uterus and is expected after a puppy is born. However, if it shows up too early, it may mean a puppy is in distress and needs immediate care.

Foul-smelling discharge is equally concerning. A strong, unpleasant odor may indicate an infection like metritis or the loss of a puppy inside the womb. Infections can spread quickly, and a retained fetus may prevent others from being delivered safely, putting the mother and her litter at serious risk. If any fluid appears suddenly, has an unusual color, or smells off before any puppies have arrived, don't wait. Call your vet right away to help keep labor on track and ensure a safe delivery.

Always consult your veterinarian before making changes to your pet's diet, exercise, or care. To find an accredited veterinarian in your area, you can search the American Animal Hospital Association's online database.