Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My pregnant dog has clear discharge. Is this a sign of labor?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed | 2 years and 8 months old

My bitch is 48 days pregnant and has a clear mucus discharge coming out of her vulva area. Does this mean she is ready to have her puppies soon? Or are they moving down?

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

5 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on July 3rd, 2016

A moderate amount of clear, sticky vaginal discharge is normal for a pregnant dog, especially close to delivery of the puppies. The increased hormone levels cause an increase in the lubrication produced by the vagina. As long as there is no evidence of dark green color in the discharge, a milky or creamy appearance or foul odor no treatment is needed. It does not mean that she will give birth earlier.

Vote icon

229Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    This is normal and usually seen a week to 2 weeks before delivery. A dog's average gestation is around 63 days. As you get closer to 63 days, you can take her temperature. A dog's normal temperature is 101-102.5F. Once her temperature falls below 99 degrees, she should go into labor in the next 24 hours.

    Vote icon

    162Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 19th, 2018

    It is likely not a concern. Her mucus plug is dissolving, she is preparing for birth, likely on time. The fact that she is happily eating is a sign that she is not in distress. Here is some good information: https://www.petcoach.co/article/whelping-giving-birth-in-dogs/

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 12th, 2016

    Fluid leakage could be a sign of labor itself. Other signs could be that she will appear quite uncomfortable and restless. She could start pacing, shivering and panting. She could be inappetent. Some dogs whine persistently. Others occupy themselves building a nest. Uterine contractions, although occurring, are not as easy to see. This stage could las t between 6 and 18 hours. As long as the leakage is not made by dark, bloody or greenish fluid (in all these cases seek a veterinarian asap) everything seems fine at the moment.

    Vote icon

    40Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 11th, 2017

    If Ariel is 61 days pregnant and she is leaking clear fluids, it could be that her waters have burst and she is in labor. Keep an eye on her, and if you don't see any sign of puppies in 24 hours, Ariel will need to see a vet right away.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Is my female rat pregnant? What are the visual signs of rat pregnancy?
Frustrated trying to tell if your rat is pregnant from a photo? A Petco vet explains why a physical exam or sonogram is crucial for an accurate diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?
See red spots on your pet? A certified Petco vet discusses common causes like allergies, infections, or mites, guiding you on diagnosis and treatment options.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored