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Pregnant dog lethargic, leaking milk, temp dropped. Is she in labor?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Great Dane | Female | unspayed | 1 year and 7 months old | 100 lbs

My Willow’s temp is 98.6 tonight, she is very lethargic, has been leaking milk for days. Should we be getting close? Her temp went to 98.9 the other night but then came back up. But she wasn’t acting like she is now. She was more her normal self.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Catherine Stecyk

Veterinarian

Published on July 18th, 2018

Hello and thank you for reaching out to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Based off of this information, it is possible that Willow is close to whelping. Some bitches stop eating during the last twenty-four hours before labor, and may act differently. The rectal temperature will drop below 100F (37.8C), usually an hour or two before whelping. I would keep a close eye on her tonight to see if she progresses to the second stage of labor. Second stage labor is the stage of delivery. She will start to strain. If straining continues for two hours without any signs of a watery discharge ("water breaking") or puppies, you should contact your veterinarian. Most dogs experience no complications with delivery. First time mothers should be attended by their owners until at least one or two puppies have been born. I hope this is helpful!

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