Your dog's birthing process isn't necessarily over once all of the puppies are out. She may continue to spot for days or even weeks after giving birth, so keep a careful eye on her. Monitoring the type of discharge she expels can help you determine whether her spotting is normal or indicative of a serious condition that merits veterinary attention.
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Weeks of Spotting
After giving birth to her pups, your dog may expel a vaginal discharge for four to eight weeks, leaving spots and stains behind. While this is generally a normal part of birthing, the quality of the discharge may indicate a health problem. Typically, the discharge should be dark red or brownish green. If it develops a more distinct, bright red color, a thick and pussy consistency or a pungent odor, it may be a sign of infection or retained placentas that weren't expelled during birth. If you're concerned about your dog's spotting, seek veterinary attention as soon as possible.
By Tom Ryan
References
2ndChance.info: The Stages of Canine Labor When Your Dog Is About To Gives Birth
Hilltop Animal Hospital: Care of Mother Dogs and Puppies
About the Author
Tom Ryan is a freelance writer, editor and English tutor. He graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a degree in English writing, and has also worked as an arts and entertainment reporter with "The Pitt News" and a public relations and advertising copywriter with the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh.
