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My pregnant dog had labor signs, then stopped. Is she still in labor?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | unspayed | 3 years and 4 months old

My dog is 60 days pregnant and today showed signs of labour like Panting Breathing heavy Dig holes under the house But now has stopped she’s not panting she just sleeping in her welping box she ate but when she sits her belly tighten like she’s having contractions soo Iam just confused could she be in labour

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4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 20th, 2018

Yes, she could be starting stage II of labor. Remember, not every dog reads "the book". She may not have all the listed symptoms. Here is an article about the stages of labor and what to expect. If you are worried about her at any time you should always take her to a vet for an exam. It is better to be safe than sorry if you think there is something wrong. Taking her rectal temperature is a good way to know if she is getting ready to whelp. ( https://pethelpful.com/dogs/Dog-WhelpingThe-Stages-of-Dog-Labor ) Best wishes.

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    Answered By Stephanie Echols, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 11th, 2020

    thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It sounds like it could be labor signs. I would leave Sandy alone. I know it’s hard not to check on her but the more stimulus she has the more it will disrupt labor. Give her some time and space. She knows what she’s doing, it is instinctual. Good luck to you and Sandy!

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    Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on November 18th, 2016

    I understand - thanks for the additional details! :) If yesterday was her 63rd day, then you're right that puppies should be coming very soon. When a dog is actively having contractions, normally she is laying down and you can actually see her pushing or straining - her abdominal muscles visibly tense up, and her facial expression changes like she is concentrating or having a bowel movement. Contractions usually last for several seconds or up to a minute at a time. If she is still restless and panting, then this usually means that she hasn't started active labor yet. Based on the time frame you are describing, I would be okay with monitoring her at home tonight unless she takes a turn for the worse (vomiting, strange discharge from the vulva, etc.). If she has not produced any puppies by tomorrow morning, it would be best to take her to the vet for an exam and ultrasound to see what's going on.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 22nd, 2019

    Hi Jessie. It sounds like Pepper could be in the first stage of labor which can last up to 18 hours. Keep an eye on her, and if 18 hours pass without progression to having puppies, have her seen by a vet immediately. Best of luck.

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