German Shepherd Dog Delivery Time

german shepherd puppy feeding chart month months

German Shepherds, known for their intelligence, loyalty, and herding abilities, are popular breeds that often find themselves as beloved family pets. For those anticipating the arrival of a litter of German Shepherd puppies, understanding the typical delivery timeline is crucial for ensuring the health and safety of both the mother (dam) and her pups.

The gestation period for German Shepherds, like most dogs, typically ranges from 58 to 68 days. While this timeframe provides a general guideline, pinpointing the exact delivery date can be challenging. Factors such as the individual dog, the timing of ovulation, and the size of the litter can all influence the length of gestation.

Several signs indicate that a German Shepherd is nearing labor. In the week or two leading up to delivery, you might observe nesting behavior. The dam may start scratching at her bed, rearranging blankets, or seeking out secluded spots to prepare a “nest” for her pups. Her appetite may also fluctuate, and she might become more restless or clingy.

As labor approaches more closely, typically within 24-48 hours, a significant drop in body temperature, usually around 2 degrees Fahrenheit, is a reliable indicator. Normal body temperature for a dog is around 101 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit, so a drop to 99 degrees or lower suggests that labor is imminent.

Other signs to watch for include a loss of appetite, vomiting, panting, pacing, and increased restlessness. The vulva will also become more swollen. Clear vaginal discharge may also be present. Once active labor begins, contractions will become visible. The first stage of labor can last from 6 to 12 hours, and the dam will exhibit increasingly stronger contractions as her uterus prepares to expel the puppies.

The second stage of labor is characterized by the delivery of the puppies. The dam will strain and push with each contraction. Typically, puppies are born every 30 to 60 minutes, although this can vary. It is not uncommon for a dam to rest between deliveries. Each puppy is typically born encased in a placental sac, which the mother will usually rupture. She will then lick the puppy to stimulate breathing and circulation. It’s important to ensure that each puppy is breathing and nursing properly after delivery.

The third stage of labor involves the expulsion of the placenta after each puppy. It is essential to keep track of the number of placentas to ensure that none are retained within the dam, as this can lead to infection. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you suspect that a placenta has been retained.

While most German Shepherd deliveries proceed without complications, it’s crucial to be aware of potential problems and know when to seek veterinary assistance. Contact your vet immediately if the dam is straining for more than 30 minutes without producing a puppy, if there is a prolonged period (more than 2 hours) between puppies, if she exhibits signs of extreme pain or distress, if she has a fever, or if there is any green or black vaginal discharge before the first puppy is born, as this could indicate placental separation. Proactive planning, close observation, and prompt veterinary care when necessary are key to a successful delivery and the health of the dam and her newborn German Shepherd puppies.

1024×615 german shepherd puppy feeding chart month months from germanshepherddog.info