What You Need for Whelping: Prepare for Your Dog's Birth
Deciding to breed your dog is a wonderful experience, but as the time for whelping approaches, thorough preparation is essential to ensure a calm and successful birth for your bitch and her puppies. Whether you are a first-time breeder or have previous experience, having the right equipment and a well-organised plan can make all the difference.
1. Setting Up Your Whelping Space
The whelping box serves as the birthing area and initial home for the puppies during their first three weeks. It must be spacious enough for your bitch to lie comfortably, turn around, and care for her litter. High sides prevent tiny puppies from wandering off while ensuring the mother can enter and exit without difficulty.
Line the box with absorbent bedding such as newspapers, vet beds or towels. Keep ample spare bedding ready for regular changes to maintain a clean environment. For the whelping itself, have old rags and additional disposable paper materials on hand, as the process can be messy. To keep the newborns warm, prepare hot water bottles wrapped safely or low-level heat pads, but avoid direct contact to prevent burns.
2. Essential Equipment for the Birth
While dogs usually birth without intervention, some breeds are more prone to difficulties, particularly brachycephalic breeds like the Boxer or Pug, which often require surgical assistance. Planning ahead with your vet is vital if a caesarean is anticipated.
If your bitch is giving birth at home, prepare the following:
- Haemostatic clamps to safely crimp and control the umbilical cord
- Sterilised scissors for cutting the umbilical cord carefully
- Material to tie off the cord securely, such as unwaxed dental floss or clean thread
- Warm towels to gently dry and stimulate puppies
- Surgical gloves to maintain hygiene
- Veterinary-approved lubricant to assist if needed
- A reliable thermometer to monitor your dog's temperature, with notes of findings
- Paper collars or identifiers to distinguish puppies after birth
- An accurate scale to record birth weights, helping identify any runts or concerns early
- Milk substitute and suitable feeding bottles to support puppies if the mother cannot nurse adequately
- Calcium supplements as advised by your vet, to support your bitch during labour
- Fresh water and high-energy food or broth available for the bitch during labour to maintain stamina
3. Developing Contingency Plans
Ensure your veterinarian is aware of your dog's impending labour and keep all emergency contact numbers readily accessible, including after-hours services. Your car or transport should be prepared for immediate use in case of complications requiring veterinary intervention.
Arrange for another experienced dog owner or breeder to be 'on call' for support and advice as the birth progresses. If you have other pets or children, appoint someone to care for them, ensuring your full attention can be with your dog during this critical time.
4. Monitoring and Self-Care During Labour
Close monitoring of your bitch is crucial in the days leading up to and during labour. Regular temperature checks can signal when labour is imminent—typically a drop below 37.8°C (100°F) within 24 hours. Watch for restlessness, nesting behaviour, panting, or contractions.
To be fully available through potentially lengthy labour, prepare a comfortable space for yourself near the whelping box. Have a chair or sleeping bag with pillows, and provisions for food and hydration, so you can stay alert and responsive without becoming fatigued.
Conclusion
Successful whelping requires advance preparation, detailed knowledge, and calm readiness. By gathering essential equipment, setting up a comfortable whelping area, having contingency plans, and caring for both your dog and yourself, you contribute to a safer, less stressful birthing experience. Always work in close consultation with your vet to ensure the best outcomes for your bitch and her puppies.
For those seeking to find reputable breeders or puppies, consider visiting puppies for sale and connecting with responsible breeders who prioritise health and welfare.
