Newborn Puppy Not Breathing? Immediate Steps to Save

Witnessing a dog giving birth is a precious moment, rare for many to experience. While most dogs deliver their young naturally without intervention, some breeds like the French bulldog may face complications requiring caesarean sections.

Occasionally, a newborn puppy may not start breathing immediately after birth—a heart-wrenching event that calls for calm and quick action. Some puppies may be stillborn due to hereditary or developmental issues, birth complications, or other factors. However, if you observe a pup struggling to breathe, knowing how to act promptly can make the difference between life and loss.

This guide outlines the most vital steps to help a newborn puppy that isn’t breathing right after birth.

1. Check That the Placental Sac Has Ruptured

Often, a pup fails to breathe because the placental sac that wraps them in the womb remains intact after delivery. Typically, the dam will tear this sac away immediately after birth to free the puppy. If she doesn’t, you must act quickly.

Before touching the pup, wash your hands thoroughly and ideally wear sterile gloves to reduce infection risk. Gently tear open the sac to expose the nose and mouth, clearing any blockage that might prevent breathing. Wipe the area carefully to ensure the puppy’s airways are unobstructed.

2. Clear the Puppy’s Airways

Newborn pups often have fluids in their noses and throats from the birthing process, which can hinder breathing. Hold the pup with its head slightly lowered and supported.

Gently swing the pup downwards to use gravity in clearing fluids from the airways. If this doesn't help, use a rubber bulb syringe carefully to suction fluids from the nose and mouth without causing injury. Repeat this process as needed, supporting the pup’s head throughout.

3. Stimulate the Breathing Response

The mother normally licks pups to arouse their breathing reflex. You can mimic this by briskly rubbing the puppy’s body, especially along its chest and back, with a clean, slightly textured towel. The rubbing should be firm but gentle—too cautious stimulation may be ineffective, while overly harsh treatment risks harm.

If the puppy does not start breathing within about 30 seconds, more forceful stimulation or additional interventions may be necessary.

4. Perform Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) if Required

If the puppy still isn’t responding, first check for a heartbeat. If none is detected, begin gentle chest compressions immediately—position your fingers just behind the front legs and compress at a rate of about one per second.

Before giving rescue breaths, confirm the airway is clear of fluids and membranes. To provide breaths, form a seal over the puppy’s nose and mouth and give gentle puffs of air. Watch for the chest to rise and fall, confirming effective ventilation. Alternate compressions and breaths diligently.

If no response occurs after about 20-25 minutes, chances of survival become very slim. However, continue efforts as long as you can, because prompt and persistent action improves outcomes.

5. Keep the Puppy Warm and Dry

Hypothermia is dangerous for newborn puppies, especially those requiring resuscitation. After clearing the airways and during CPR efforts, ensure the puppy stays warm but not overheated. Use a heat lamp or warm towels and avoid direct contact with intense heat.

6. Seek Immediate Veterinary Advice

Even if you successfully resuscitate the puppy, call your vet immediately. They can provide vital guidance over the phone and offer emergency care if available. If one pup faces trouble, other puppies may also be at risk, so having professional support during the entire birth can be crucial.

7. Recognising Signs of Breathing Problems Early

Sometimes signs are subtle. Difficult or laboured breathing, excessive crying, weak movements, nasal discharge, or coughing may signal respiratory distress in newborn puppies.

Early recognition allows you to act quickly by clearing airways and providing warmth, hydration, and veterinary care to improve survival chances.

Summary of Key Steps to Save a Newborn Puppy Not Breathing

1. Check and remove any intact placental sac carefully.
2. Clear fluids from nose and mouth naturally or with a suction bulb.
3. Stimulate breathing by brisk rubbing with a clean towel.
4. Perform CPR: gentle chest compressions and rescue breaths, watching for chest movement.
5. Maintain the puppy’s body temperature with warmth and dryness.
6. Contact your vet immediately for guidance and emergency help.
7. Observe newborns vigilantly for signs of breathing difficulties.

Bringing a newborn puppy through such a critical moment requires calm, knowledge, and swift action. Responsible pet owners and breeders should prepare beforehand by learning these steps and having supplies ready. Above all, seeking veterinary assistance is essential to maximise the chances of a healthy start to life.

This article includes helpful links to puppies for sale and reputable French Bulldog breeders, supporting informed and responsible choices when welcoming new puppies into your home.