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First-time dog mom? Is your pregnant dog showing signs of stress or anxiety? Keep your dog calm during labor. In this dog whelping guide, Revival’s Director of Veterinary Services, Dr. Marty Greer offers 4 tips on how to ease a dog’s anxiety during whelping. In this video, she’ll share proven techniques to calm a dog during labor, especially helpful for first-time moms. Learn how to reduce stress during dog labor with Dr. Greer’s expert tips on setting up a peaceful whelping environment, using calming supplements for dogs, and providing comfort during your dog’s first litter.

How to Help a First-Time Mother Dog Stay Calm During Whelping

Supporting a first-time mother dog during labor is essential to ensure a calm, safe whelping experience.

1. 1. 1. First, create a quiet, stress-free environment. Avoid extra visitors, keep other dogs away, and limit the space to just you and maybe one trusted helper. A peaceful setting goes a long way in keeping the dam calm.
      2. Next, make sure you have all your whelping supplies organized and within reach. Scrambling for items in the middle of delivery only adds to the stress—for both of you. Revival’s Whelping Kit is a great resource to use when shopping for whelping supplies to ensure you have everything you may need.
      3. Supplemental support, like Breeder’s Edge® Oral Cal Plus gel, can also make a big difference. This fast-absorbing calcium gel helps support the nervous system by working with oxytocin in the brain. The result: support for contractions, milk production, and a more relaxed dam.
      4. Finally, help the mother recognize her puppies. If you’ve had a C-section or saved placental fluid, gently apply some to the pups. This helps them smell familiar and encourages maternal bonding—especially if they’ve been wiped down with towels that may carry other scents.

   With preparation and the right support, you can help your first-time mom feel confident, calm, and ready to care for her newborns.

   If you have more questions on how to reduce anxiety in dogs during labor, call us at 800.786.4751.