Why wont my nursing dog stop panting?

Understanding Excessive Panting in Nursing Dogs
If your nursing dog is panting excessively, it can be concerning for any pet owner. While some degree of panting is normal after giving birth, especially as the mother adjusts to her new role, persistent or intense panting may indicate underlying issues that require attention.
Normal Postpartum Behavior
After giving birth, it is common for dogs to exhibit increased panting. This behavior can be attributed to several factors, including the physical exertion of labor, hormonal changes, and the stress of caring for newborn puppies. Typically, this panting should subside within a few days as the mother settles into her routine and recovers from the birthing process.
Potential Health Concerns
However, if the panting continues or intensifies, it may signal a more serious condition. One critical concern is eclampsia, also known as milk fever, which occurs due to low calcium levels in nursing mothers. This condition can lead to severe symptoms, including tremors, inability to stand, and excessive panting. If your dog shows signs of discomfort or distress alongside panting, it is crucial to seek veterinary assistance immediately, as eclampsia can be life-threatening.
Another possibility is the presence of retained placentas or puppies. If the mother has not expelled all the placentas or if there are still puppies inside, this can cause significant discomfort and lead to excessive panting. In such cases, prompt veterinary intervention is necessary to ensure the health and safety of both the mother and her puppies.
Environmental Factors
It’s also important to consider environmental factors that may contribute to panting. Nursing dogs may become overheated, especially if they are in a warm environment or if they are stressed. Panting serves as a mechanism for dogs to cool down, so ensuring that your dog has a comfortable, cool space can help alleviate excessive panting.
When to Seek Help
In summary, while some panting is normal for a nursing dog, persistent or severe panting should not be ignored. If your dog continues to pant excessively after a few days, or if you notice any additional symptoms such as lethargy, tremors, or signs of distress, it is essential to consult with a veterinarian. Early intervention can make a significant difference in the health outcomes for both the mother and her puppies.

Do dogs pant with mastitis?

In this case, the mother will likely not show any signs of mastitis and might just be experiencing mild discomfort. As the disease worsens, a dog with mastitis will become more visibly ill. Affected dogs may also develop signs of septic shock, including shaking, weakness, panting, and low blood pressure.

How do I know if my dog is having difficulty giving birth?

I use the following parameters to help determine if a dog is having difficulty giving birth. Greater than 4 hours have passed after the first rupture of membranes (water breaking) without a puppy being born. 30-60 minutes of hard labor without a puppy being born. Greater than 2 hours between the births of puppies.

Why is my nursing dog panting so much?

When puppies nurse, the suckling does cause the uterus to contract. This can cause a female to pant. Additionally, a female may pant more due to being under stress because of having puppies and from the puppies’ nails as well. Panting for a couple of weeks after delivery is not that unusual.

Can you leave newborn puppies alone with their mom overnight?

Unless your dog has a history of hurting her pups or you noticed that she is trying to hurt them, there should be no reason that you cannot leave her alone with her puppies. She is a mother, and mothers usually take good care of their babies.

What are the symptoms of eclampsia in dogs?

Symptoms of eclampsia in dogs include:

• Walking stiffly.
• Weakness or inability/unwillingness to walk.
• Muscle spasms or twitching.
• Trembling.
• Panting.
• Rapid heart rate.
• High body temperature (fever)
• Seizures.

What is milk fever in nursing dogs?

Milk fever, also known as eclampsia or puerperal tetany, occurs when blood calcium is low after giving birth. It usually occurs within 2-4 weeks of whelping, but can also occur in the last weeks of gestation or pregnancy.

Is it normal for a nursing dog to be tired?

Yes, breastfeeding can be very exhausting and draining to the mother dog.

What are the signs of eclampsia in dogs?

Symptoms of eclampsia in dogs include:

• Walking stiffly.
• Weakness or inability/unwillingness to walk.
• Muscle spasms or twitching.
• Trembling.
• Panting.
• Rapid heart rate.
• High body temperature (fever)
• Seizures.

Why is my dog breathing so hard while breastfeeding?

It is normal to have it happen during lactation, as nursing stimulates the uterus to contract thus causing the panting.

How long does a dog pant before giving birth?

The first stage of labor, panting and restlessness, lasts a good while — often between six to twelve hours. Active labor, with pushing, often lasts from ten to 30 minutes before a puppy appears. The second puppy may appear more quickly after that.