When your dog is expecting a litter of puppies, it is common to be counting down the days until the puppies arrive. The average canine gestation period is 63 days; however, just as with humans, this number is not set in stone. Some dogs may deliver as early as 58 days without problems and as late as 68 to 70 days.
When the Due Date Comes and Goes
While your calendar may say the puppies should arrive on day 63, day 64 may come along without puppy breath and whimpering. At day 64, there is generally nothing to be concerned about. If, however, your dog reaches day 70 without beginning labor, contact your veterinarian. The veterinarian can take X-rays to determine the puppies' ages, their location in the uterus and if there are any possible delivery complications. In many cases, your dates may just be off by a few days.
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Writer Bio
Deborah Lundin is a professional writer with more than 20 years of experience in the medical field and as a small business owner. She studied medical science and sociology at Northern Illinois University. Her passions and interests include fitness, health, healthy eating, children and pets.