In some instances the first stage of labor is missed altogether.

Signs to watch for are:

• Nesting behavior
• Dam could become distressed (including: pacing, acting uncomfortable, panting, restlessness, discomfort, licking vulva, vomiting, and frequent urination.)
• Temperature should be taken three times per day and should be 100-100.8° prior to labor.
  When temp drops considerably, to 98-99° puppies should present themselves within 24 hours. At this time, inform your vet of pending puppies. After the drop the temp will stay at about 99.4
• Dam may refuse food as her appetite goes away.
• Stools may turn dark.
• Do not let dam out to relieve herself without supervision.
• Offer smaller meals, and maybe try some more expensive canned food.

The first stage of labor can last 24 hours, and can go totally unnoticed. Do NOT give calcium during this stage of dilating. Calcium can only be given when contractions are a minute apart, and she is constantly pushing.

The second stage usually begins with a rather clear or mucous-like discharge from the vulva. In the second stage of labor contractions should start. There will be more discharge, and the presentation of a round, golf-ball size membrane sac of water. This sac is still the 2nd stage of labor and dilating. Do not give calcium. She is not ready to push. This is usually just the horn sac. Pup can follow in 20 minutes to a few hours. Some vets recommend not letting her puncture this sac. This is the protective sac that the puppies are in. But do not fret if she pops it. This is her water breaking. After presentation of this sac, the puppy could be out in about 30 minutes, but it can take a couple of hours.

The third stage of labor is the presentation of puppy and delivery of placenta