If you’re a dog owner wondering when your furry friend might go into labor, you’re not alone. Many pet parents want to be present for the birth to support their pooch. So when do dogs tend to give birth – during the day or at night?
The quick answer is that dogs can give birth at any time of day or night. However, some studies show most dogs tend to go into labor at night when things are quieter and calmer. Daytime labors do happen as well though.
The Science Behind When Dogs Deliver Puppies
Hormonal Changes Leading Up to Birth
In the weeks leading up to giving birth, a female dog undergoes some remarkable hormonal changes that help prepare her body for labor and delivery. One of the most important hormones is progesterone, which helps maintain pregnancy by supporting the uterine lining and preventing early contractions.
As delivery approaches, progesterone levels fall sharply, allowing the uterus to start contracting.
Another key hormone is relaxin, which helps soften and relax the dog’s pelvic ligaments and cervix in preparation for delivery. Relaxin levels steadily rise during pregnancy, peaking just before labor begins.
This flexibility in a dog’s rear legs and hips allows pups to pass through the birth canal more easily.
The Role of Relaxin Hormone Before Labor
The relaxin hormone plays a crucial role in getting a dog’s body ready for the amazing feat of giving birth. As the name suggests, relaxin helps relax the muscles and ligaments of a pregnant dog’s pelvis and reproductive tract.
This relaxation allows the cervix to soften and widen while also providing more flexibility and stretch in the pelvic region.
In the days leading up to delivery, relaxin helps make the pelvis more pliable and loosens up the dog’s rear legs and hips. This flexibility facilitates the passage of puppies through the birth canal during labor and delivery.
The high levels of relaxin just before labor is one reason dogs often appear unsteady on their feet and have difficulty jumping up before giving birth.
Prostaglandin Release and Active Labor
As progesterone levels fall close to delivery, the uterus starts ramping up production of natural hormones called prostaglandins. These hormones stimulate contractions of the uterus and dilation of the cervix.
The increasing prostaglandins kickstart active labor when contractions become regular and become progressively stronger and closer together.
Interestingly, female dogs can influence the timing of prostaglandin release to some degree. When prostaglandin levels reach a critical threshold, a positive feedback loop is triggered causing even more prostaglandin release.
If a dog feels unsafe or anxious, however, she may be able to temporarily halt this progression until she feels secure and ready.
Why Nighttime May Feel Safer for Dogs
Since dogs rely so much on their senses of smell and hearing, the quieter, darker environment of nighttime may help a laboring dog feel more secure. The darkness allows them to retreat to a quiet, private nesting area without commotion or distraction.
This sense of safety and privacy removes environmental stress and may allow the prostaglandin process to proceed uninterrupted.
Additionally, dogs may instinctively feel more vulnerable while in active labor and prefer the cover of darkness. By waiting for night, dogs may gain protection against predators and other perceived threats when they are occupied with the intense process of contractions and birth.
Be Prepared For a Birth at Any Hour
Bringing puppies into the world is an exciting yet unpredictable time for a dog mom. While there are some general patterns, every pooch pregnancy and birth is unique. Being ready for anything will help make the experience smoother for you and more comfortable for your furry friend.
Get Your Supplies Ready in Advance
As your dog’s due date approaches, have any needed items on hand. This includes things like welping supplies, extra food and water, medical equipment, and comfort items. Stock up on clean towels, newspaper, gloves, disinfectant, dental floss, scissors, heating pad, scale, thermometer, etc.
Check with your vet for any breed-specific recommendations. Gather supplies in one place for easy access.
Have a Calm, Private Area Set Up For Her
In the final days of pregnancy, set up a quiet, secluded space for your pooch to give birth. This could be a closet, bathroom, spare room, large box, or pen. Line it with newspapers, pee pads, or washable fabric. Include a comfy dog bed, toys, and water. Keep food nearby.
Minimize loud noises, children, and other pets to help your dog feel safe and relaxed.
Learn the Signs That Labor Will Start Soon
In the last 2 weeks, watch for clues that whelping is getting closer. Signs include enlarged or swollen nipples, discharge, nesting behavior, less appetite, restlessness, and licking/digging at her bed or belly. Her vulva may relax.
Take her rectal temperature – a drop below 100°F often precedes active labor. Time mild contractions. Notify your vet so you know who to reach if needed.
Pay Attention to Changes in Behavior
Your dog’s habits and temperament can provide hints about the onset of labor. She may seem anxious, clingy, or closed off and withdrawn. Her sleep patterns might change. She could lose her mucus plug. Watch for pacing, shivering, whining, tail chasing, panting, vomiting.
With contractions, she may adopt a hunched stance while pushing out puppies. Stay observant of all signals.
Help Keep Your Dog Relaxed Through the Birthing Process
Provide Comfort Items Like Familiar Blankets
Bringing your pregnant dog familiar scents and textures can help lower her stress levels during delivery. Place her favorite blanket or toy from home in the whelping area. The recognizable smells and fabrics will help her feel more relaxed and comforted.
You can also rub a worn t-shirt or cloth on her body ahead of time, then place it in the whelping box so she associates your scent with the area. Providing these familiar comfort items can go a long way towards keeping her calm.
Use Soothing Music, Scents or Gentle Massage
Using calming stimuli like soft music, soothing scents or gentle massage can help relax your laboring dog. Try playing light classical or spa music in the background during early labor. Diffusing calming essential oils like lavender or chamomile in the room may also help her unwind.
If she allows it, lightly massaging her shoulders, neck or back can ease tension. Employing these soothing techniques early on can promote relaxation before stronger contractions start.
Give Words of Comfort and Reassurance
Offering reassuring words, praise and encouragement can help put your birthing dog at ease. Use a gentle, soothing tone to let her know what a good girl she is. Say things like “you’re doing great” and “good girl” as she labors and delivers each pup.
Pet her and allow her to snuggle against you between contractions for comfort. Your calm, steady presence and positive reinforcement will help alleviate her stress.
Have Backup Support From Your Vet If Needed
Make sure your veterinarian is aware that your dog is in labor in case complications arise. Keep their number handy or have them on standby. If your dog experiences extreme anxiety, pain or difficulty delivering, don’t hesitate to call your vet for guidance or bring her in.
They can provide medications or assistance if needed to help ease her stress and ensure safe delivery. Having professional backup support can provide you and your dog with much-needed peace of mind.
Recognizing the Stages of Labor and What to Expect
Early Nesting Instincts and Other Clues
As your due date approaches, your dog’s nesting instincts will kick in. She may start collecting blankets, towels or toys and arranging them into a cozy nest. This is one of the first signs that labor is coming soon. Some dogs also lose their appetite and become clingy and restless as hormones shift.
Keep an eye out for these behavioral changes in the final week of pregnancy.
Vaginal discharge is another giveaway that delivery is imminent. You may notice a clear or slightly bloody discharge up to 48 hours before contractions start. This discharge is caused by the cervix beginning to dilate and the mucus plug being expelled. Monitor your dog closely once you see this sign.
Clear Vaginal Discharge Signals Labor is Close
A clear or bloody vaginal discharge is one of the first physical signs that your dog’s labor is approaching. This discharge is caused by the cervix beginning to dilate, expelling mucus and the mucus plug from the cervix. The discharge may look clear and reddish or slightly bloody.
This sign generally occurs 24-48 hours before the onset of labor.
It’s important to watch your dog closely once you notice vaginal discharge to ensure she doesn’t have trouble giving birth. Keep her comfortable and confined to her nesting area. Call your vet if you have any concerns. But in most cases, this discharge means puppies will arrive soon!
Different Phases from First Contractions Through Delivery
Canine labor consists of three stages, similar to human birth. Here’s what to expect:
- Stage 1 involves relaxation of the cervix and light contractions. Your dog will seem restless. This stage can last 6-12 hours.
- Stage 2 is active labor when strong contractions begin and the first puppy starts moving down the birth canal. Hard straining occurs. This stage may last 4-8 hours.
- Stage 3 is after all puppies are delivered and the placentas pass. Your dog will likely eat the placentas. This stage lasts 1-2 hours.
You’ll know stage 2 is starting when you see strong abdominal contractions, usually every 30-60 minutes. Be prepared to call the vet if your dog struggles to give birth or more than 2 hours pass without a puppy.
Most dogs give birth easily on their own, but it’s crucial to monitor the process in case assistance is needed. With patience and care, you’ll be greeting a healthy litter of puppies soon!
Day or Night: Be There When Your Dog Needs You Most
Have a Rotation System If You Have Helpers
Let’s assume your dog’s delivery date is aproaching. While your pooch will primarily want you by her side for comfort, it’s wise to enlist a helper or two to allow for breaks. Having a rotation system will prevent caregiver fatigue.
Be sure helpers are briefed on warning signs requiring veterinary assistance. When your dog is actively pushing, she’ll need calm encouragement and an experienced hand to assist if necessary. But during more latent phases, another trusted person can step in and allow you to recharge.
Resist Urging Your Dog to Push Before She’s Ready
Seeing your dog in discomfort as labor progresses will be hard. But just as human mothers must refrain from pushing until fully dilated, dogs know instinctively when to bear down. Urging your dog to push too early could cause complications. Let your vet guide you on timing.
Some signs a dog is ready to push actively include: reduced resting time between contractions, obvious straining without a pup being born, or a protruding sac at the vulva. At this point, get ready to encourage your dog to “push” on contractions.
Know When to Call the Vet for Assistance
While most dogs deliver normally, veterinary assistance may be needed. Call your vet promptly if you notice:
- Active labor exceeding 12 hours with no puppy born
- More than 4 hours between pups being born
- A puppy appears stuck in the birth canal
- Excessive bleeding from the vulva
- A foul-smelling vaginal discharge
- Your dog is extremely lethargic despite straining
With some situations, an emergency C-section becomes necessary. But in many cases, your vet can intervene with medication to stimulate contractions or help reposition a stuck puppy. Either way, it’s better to call early rather than waiting until your dog is totally exhausted.
Prioritize your dog’s health while standing by her side as a diligent advocate.
Conclusion
As you can see, while dogs generally prefer to give birth at night when things are quieter, they can go into labor at any hour. By understanding the science behind the birthing process and your dog’s changing needs, you can be fully prepared whether your pup delivers her pups during the day or night.
Most importantly, offer your emotional support and discuss any concerns promptly with your veterinarian. With the right care and comfort measures, you can help make your loyal companion’s delivery experience feel as safe and stress-free as possible.
