How to Make Sure That Your Dog Is Ok After Giving Birth - Knowing What to Look for in a Post-Partum Dog

1. Monitor your dog's health carefully for the first weeks after giving birth. Although she may sleep more than usual, when she's awake she should appear bright-eyed. Your dog should have a good appetite.[3]
- Feed your dog several meals a day, rather than one or two larger ones. You can increase her food intake several weeks prior to the birth, and continue for several weeks following birth. It's not unusual for a nursing dog to consume 3-4 times her regular amount of food.[4]
- Many veterinarians encourage feeding puppy food to your dog during this time for its higher caloric value. This may need to be introduced gradually with your dog's regular food for best results.
- Include special treats to whet your dog's appetite. Consider offering cottage cheese, eggs, liver or other nutrition-packed delicacies.
- Make sure your dog always has easy access to fresh water. Add chicken broth to your dog's dry kibble to help supplement your dog's liquid intake.

2. Look for signs of infection. Your dog may have a slightly elevated temperature in the first 24-48 hours following birth. A rise in temperature is normal, and should not be accompanied by signs of illness.[5]
- Signs of infection in dogs include: restlessness, disinterest in puppies, foul-smelling discharge, dilated eyes.[6] If you notice any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.

3. Check your dog's mammary glands twice per day for signs of healthy nursing glands. Normal nursing glands, or nipples, should be soft and enlarged from milk production. If the glands are hard or red, this may indicate presence of infection.[7]
- If your dog appears to be avoiding nursing her pups, check her mammary glands for signs of infection. Mastitis is a bacterial infection of the nursing glands, and easily treated with antibiotics. Contact your veterinarian for assistance.
- You can easily check your dog's nursing glands by squeezing them. If your dog reacts with pain to your touch, or if you notice that the nipple is hard and/or hot to the touch, this is likely an indication of infection.
- Your dog's milk should be white and smooth, with no signs of clotting. Signs of mastitis include coloration of the milk (usually pinkish or yellow)

4. Look for signs of metritis during the first 24-48 hours following birth. Metritis is inflammation of the uterus, and may be a result of an undelivered placenta or an experience of trauma during delivery.[8]
- Signs of metritis include: fever, foul-smelling discharge, loss of appetite or decreased interest in puppies.
- If you notice signs of metritis, seek veterinary assistance immediately.

5. Look for signs of eclampsia during the first few weeks following birth. Eclampsia ("milk fever") is a result of depleted calcium, and can result in muscle spasms, seizures and death.[9]
- Signs of eclampsia include: restlessness, muscle tremors, weakness, and dilated pupils.[10]
- If you notice signs of eclampsia, seek veterinary assistance immediately.