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Can I induce labor in my pregnant dog to schedule her puppies' birth?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | unspayed | 7 lbs

My dog is pregnant and due between 8/4 and 8/11. We have a had a family vacation planned and suppose to depart on 8/11. Is it possible to try and induce labor closer to the 8/4 date?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Anna M., DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 12th, 2017

No, we don't induce labor in dogs. However, if you have worked closely with a vet who has confirmed those due dates, they may be willing to do a scheduled c-section for you. I work in a clinic that does a lot of reproductive work, and scheduled c-sections are pretty common for us. It is important that the vet confirm the due dates are accurate, as you don't want to remove those puppies prematurely. Hope this helps!

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