Why is my pregnant dog panting and breathing heavily?
Pregnancy-related panting or heavy breathing can result from a variety of different causes.
Your Dog is About to Give Birth
When your dog is actually about to give birth, which is during the second stage of labor, you’ll notice that she’s panting more heavily than usual. Additionally, your dog will be much more alert during the second stage of labor. You will visibly see the contractions during this time. A puppy is likely to emerge within 15 to 20 minutes of straining once the second stage starts.
You want to keep an eye on your dog to make sure the birth process goes smoothly, but you also want to give her some privacy as she enters the last stages of labor. After a few strains, the sac is expelled from the vagina, and the puppy is inside.
Why Is My Pregnant Dog Panting?
Pregnant dogs pant for many reasons. The most common cause is labor. The female’s body undergoes hormonal changes that prepare her for giving birth. Your dog may exhibit shaking, panting, breathing difficulties, vomiting, diarrhea, and a lack of appetite.
A pregnant dog panting most frequently means she is about to give birth. The moment of birth is approaching.
Panting lasts 12 hours on average. Your dog will most likely also experience the following symptoms during this time:
These symptoms start to appear around six hours before birth, can last up to 36 hours, and they keep getting worse. Be there for your dog and assist her if necessary.
During these hours, your dog’s body prepares for birth:
Once the first contractions appear, the first pup should make its presence felt:[1]
In 3-4 hours if the contractions are weak.
In the event of strong contractions, in no more than an hour.
Other causes of your pregnant dog’s panting exist if she isn’t about to give birth.