Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog just gave birth. Is her bleeding normal several days later?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Is it normal for the dog to discharge blood after 4 days of birthing?

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Debi Matlack

Veterinary Technician

Published on April 8th, 2015

After the delivery, your dog may leak fluids and discharge for several weeks. This discharge is called lochia, and its color may be a shade of red. Lochia should be odorless -- if it has an unpleasant smell, contact your vet, as an odor indicates infection. Otherwise, general intermittent bleeding around the vulva may continue for weeks or, in some cases, months. If you notice that your dog is actually still bleeding a few days after birth, contact your vet. While it may be normal, you need to rule out complications like postpartum hemorrhage, which can result from poor blood clotting.

Vote icon

48Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on August 22nd, 2018

    It is normal for a dog to have some discharge for as long as 6 to 8 weeks after whelping. Monitor for frank blood or active bleeding, lethargy, fever or loss of appetite. If she is behaving normally, continue to monitor at home.

    Vote icon

    2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Davis

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 14th, 2018

    Some dark bloody discharge for up to three weeks after giving birth can be normal. As long as she’s eating, drinking and nursing normally then I would just keep and eye on her. Usually this will resolve on its own without treatment. If there is a foul odor, she is not eating well, and stops nursing or seems suddenly ill or lethargic then she could have an infection that should be treated immediately. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Hershey.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on January 22nd, 2018

    This light discharge is normal after whelping. It can last 4 to 8 weeks after whelping. You can monitor for lethargy, fever, GI upset, decreased appetite, bleeding or increased discharge. See your veterinarian if necessary, but as long as she is behaving and eating normally then there is no cause for concern.

    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
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
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?
Is your dwarf hamster struggling with eye issues or limping? A trusted vet offers expert guidance on symptoms and crucial next steps for comfort and care.
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