As a responsible pet owner, it is crucial to be aware of the signs that indicate your Shih Tzu is ready to give birth. One of the early indicators is a drop in the mother’s body temperature. Typically, a drop from 38.5°C to 37°C signals that labour is imminent, with the actual birthing process commencing around 12-24 hours after this temperature decrease.
To monitor this temperature change, it is recommended to use a rectal thermometer and take your dog’s temperature twice a day during the last week of her pregnancy. This proactive approach can provide valuable insight into the timing of the birth and allow you to make necessary preparations for the delivery.
Aside from monitoring temperature fluctuations, observing your Shih Tzu’s behavior can also offer clues about her readiness to give birth. Restlessness, frequent nesting behavior, and seeking out a secluded area in the house are common signs that labour is approaching. Paying attention to these behavioral changes can help you anticipate when your dog is preparing to deliver her puppies.
Another crucial aspect to consider is the duration of your Shih Tzu’s pregnancy. On average, a Shih Tzu’s gestation period ranges from 63 to 68 days. As the due date approaches, keep a close eye on your dog for any signs of labor, such as pacing, panting, or licking her genital area. These physical cues indicate that labour is imminent, and prompt action may be necessary to ensure a safe delivery.
In addition to behavioral and physical changes, monitoring your Shih Tzu’s appetite can also provide insights into her readiness to give birth. As labour approaches, it is common for dogs to exhibit a decrease in appetite or even refuse food altogether. This loss of appetite is a natural response as the dog’s body prepares for the birthing process and focuses its energy on delivering the puppies.
Furthermore, paying attention to your Shih Tzu’s mammary glands can also help you determine her readiness for birth. Typically, in the days leading up to delivery, the mammary glands will become enlarged and may start producing milk. This development is a clear indication that your dog’s body is preparing to nurse her puppies after they are born.
It is essential to create a comfortable and safe birthing environment for your Shih Tzu as she approaches her delivery date. Set up a whelping box in a quiet, secluded area of your home and line it with clean, soft bedding to ensure a warm and cozy space for the mother and her puppies.
Moreover, familiarize yourself with the signs of complications during labor, such as prolonged straining without delivering a puppy, excessive bleeding, or signs of distress in the mother. Should any concerning symptoms arise, contact your veterinarian immediately for guidance and assistance in ensuring a successful delivery.
Preparing a whelping kit with essentials such as clean towels, sterile scissors, and unwaxed dental floss can also be beneficial in case you need to intervene during the birthing process. Being equipped with these supplies can help you address any unforeseen challenges and provide aid to your Shih Tzu if necessary.
Lastly, stay calm and attentive during the birthing process, offering support and encouragement to your Shih Tzu as she delivers her puppies. Remain present but allow the mother space and privacy to care for her newborns, intervening only if absolutely necessary to ensure the well-being of both the mother and her litter.
