A bitch at birth

[nadou]

My Golden Retriever is to give birth any day now, am I supposed to let her eat the bag and all the rest after she gives birth or am I to remove it? Pls answer as soon as possible as we are very close to the big event, Many, many thanks, Nadou

[Kande]

Hi, just wondering how mommy is doing? I forgot to tell you, when you see your dog producing milk from her nipples, she will have her puppies within 24hrs..And about the warm towels, I kept my clothes dryer running with the towels inside so I could get them as needed. I also always put one over the mothers back when she is completely finished giving birth.She will relax and feed her puppies. She will not want to leave the puppies for a day, so if she doesn't eat that is o.k., another benefit of the afterbirth. Don't let her go passed one day. Also keep plenty of water where she can get to it easy...she will want it, and that will help her have plenty of milk. I may think of something else, hope I'm not bothering you. Thanks

[Jaybay]

We've had a few posts in the past months from people who lost several pups or entire litters within a few days of birth.  The pups died because they weren't kept warm enough.  Check with your vet about temperature requirements while you still have some calm time.  Hope all goes well!

[suzi-q]

This is so exciting!!!!  What a wonderous event!  Keep us posted!

[Kande]

I sent that reply ahead so you could get the answer you needed fast! I also wanted to tell you,stay with the mother...she will be nervous. Talk to her gently, say things like "Good girl," and rub her back gently as you do this. When a pup is born she will work with it first, then consume the afterbirth. Have warm towels ready to put the pups in when she is done with it,(she will check on the pup, always let her see it). She will realize you are helping her and appreciate it. Make sure she doesn't roll onto the pup, large dogs are sometimes not as careful. Don't let the mother dog labor too long between pups,(should have 1 pup an hour). Have a vet you know aware that she is giving birth (incase of complications). Be ready for a large litter, probably between 8-12 pups? I think everything will go well!! Please let us know when the little sweethearts are born! Thank you.

[Kande]

Hello, Yes you should let her eat the afterbirth. This helps stimulate milk production, plus the milk will have all the vitamins etc. needed.