TL;DR: If your dog has been actively straining for over an hour without producing a puppy, she is experiencing a critical medical emergency called dystocia and requires immediate veterinary intervention.
What is happening when my dog is in active labor?
When a dog enters the second stage of labor, she begins active abdominal contractions to push the puppies through the birth canal. Under normal circumstances, a puppy should be delivered within 30 to 60 minutes of active straining. If your dog has been having strong contractions for two hours without producing a puppy, she is likely experiencing dystocia, which is the medical term for a difficult or obstructed birth.
Is it an emergency if my dog has been straining for a long time without giving birth?
Urgency Level: High. This is a critical medical emergency where the lives of both the mother and the puppies are at risk. You should contact an emergency veterinarian immediately if:
- Active, visible straining continues for more than 45 to 60 minutes without a puppy being born.
- Your dog seems exhausted and has stopped straining after a long period of labor.
- Medical intervention is required, which may include medication to assist contractions or an emergency C-section.
Why should I take a photo or video for the veterinary triage team?
If you are able to safely do so, providing visuals can be vital for the veterinary triage team to assess the situation before you arrive:
- A short video of the contractions allows professionals to assess their strength and frequency.
- A clear photo of the vulva helps the team check for visible obstructions, such as a puppy stuck in the birth canal.
- Visual confirmation of discharge color, specifically dark green fluid before the first puppy arrives, helps the vet determine the level of fetal distress and prepare the surgical team.
Clinical Context (Merck Veterinary Manual)
Dystocia should be considered an emergency if strong abdominal contractions last for 1-2 hours without the passage of a puppy. Active labor lasting for 1-2 hours without delivery of subsequent puppies also warrants concern. Other signs include a resting period during active labor exceeding 4-6 hours, obvious pain, or abnormal vulvar discharge such as frank blood or dark green discharge before any neonates are born, which indicates placental separation.
Chapter: Reproduction
Source: The Merck Veterinary Manual, 11th Edition (Page 1395)