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How to tell if my pregnant dog is in active labor after a week?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | unspayed | 60 lbs

My female corgi chichihua is pregnant and I fear that she is not going to be able to have the pups because she is showing signs of labor as in whining, restlessness, shivering I believe she may have lost her mucus plug three days ago because she had a clear stringy mucus like gunck on her hind leg. Her belly will harden and then get soft the puppies are fully active how can I tell for sure that she is in active labor? She has been having these signs for about one week now except pups being activ

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on June 5th, 2023

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question. I would check LaeLae's body temperature using a rectal thermometer. A dog's normal temperature is between 101-102F, and if a pregnant dog's temperature drops below 100F, that's typically a sign of active labor. She may appear restless and anxious, and you could see panting, pacing, and a refusal of food. The loss of the mucus plug can occur anywhere from a few hours to four to five days before giving birth. The best way to know for sure is to have her seen by a vet. I'm concerned that she's been having these signs for a week, I would take her into a vet immediately to get checked out. I hope this helps.

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