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My pregnant dog is panting and licking at 52 days. Is she in labor?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Female | unspayed | 1 year and 4 months old | 15 lbs

My shih tzu is pregnant. From the time she was mate it is 52 days. But right now she is panting and licking anything around her. I know it is still early to give birth. What will i do?

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 6th, 2017

Unfortunately if she is truly going into labor, there is not likely much you can do to stop the process. I am attaching an article here with information on birthing puppies at home: http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=678 which provides lots of great information on how the birthing process goes and when to worry/call your vet. If she is truly t his early, I may consider bringing her in to your vet for a few reasons. It is possible she is panting and licking due to nausea or pain for another reason, and they may find this cause. It is also possible for the vet to evaluate the puppies for health/fetal distress with an ultrasound if the vet has access to one. It may also be helpful if the puppies are born early to have veterinary care available if any of the puppies do not do well and need help once born.

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