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My dog seems in labor, vulva open, but no puppies or pushing?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | unspayed | 5 years and 1 month old | 7 lbs

I thought my dog was in labor this morning, no pups yet, have not seen active pushing. Vulva looks open

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on January 22nd, 2020

The first stage of labor can last up to 18 hours before the pushing stage starts. It may be Coco hasn't reached the second stage of labor yet when she pushes. You can have her checked out by a vet to be safe.

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