How to Birth a Puppy When the Sac Has Broken

If the mother dog's water has broken but she is not yet in labor, you will need to prepare for the whelping process. Please note: this should be done under the guidance of a veterinarian or experienced breeder.

Step 1: Gather supplies

Gather the following supplies:

---

- A clean towel or sheet

- A small bowl of warm water

- A clean cotton ball

- A pair of tweezers

- A pair of scissors

- Iodine or another disinfectant

- A heating pad or hot water bottle

- A whelping box (a cardboard box lined with newspapers works well)

Step 2: Prepare the whelping box

- Place the clean towel or sheet in the whelping box.

- Line the bottom of the box with newspaper to absorb any fluids.

- Place the heating pad or hot water bottle in the box to keep the puppies warm.

Step 3: Prepare the mother dog

- Bring the mother dog to the whelping box.

- Gently wipe her belly and genitals with a warm, wet washcloth.

- Trim any long hair around her genitals to prevent it from getting in the way during the birth.

Step 4: Monitor the mother dog

- Once the mother dog is in the whelping box, keep a close eye on her.

- Watch for signs of labor, such as panting, pacing, and digging.

- If you notice any signs of distress, such as excessive bleeding or difficulty breathing, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Step 5: Assist with the birth

- When the mother dog is ready to give birth, she will lie down on her side.

- The first puppy will usually be born within 30 minutes to an hour.

- The puppies will be born in a sac of fluid.

- If the mother dog does not break the sac, you can gently tear it open with your fingers or the scissors.

- Use the cotton ball to clean the puppy's nose and mouth of any fluid so it can breathe freely.

- Gently rub the puppy's body to stimulate its breathing.

- Once the puppy is breathing, cut the umbilical cord about an inch from the puppy's belly.

- Dip the end of the umbilical cord in iodine or another disinfectant to prevent infection.

- Place the puppy in a warm, dry place.

Step 6: Care for the mother dog and puppies

- After the birth is complete, allow the mother dog to rest and bond with her puppies.

- Offer her food and water, and make sure she has a comfortable place to sleep.

- Keep the whelping box clean and dry, and change the newspaper as needed.

- Weigh the puppies every day to ensure they are gaining weight.

- Contact your veterinarian if you have any concerns about the mother dog or puppies.