How Do You Know When Your Dog Is Giving Birth?

There are a few signs of pregnancy in the dog that you may notice.  Pregnancy lasts approximately 63 days.  The earliest signs include decreased appetite, a decrease in activity may be noticed, and nipple enlargement.  As pregnancy progresses, you may notice an increase in appetite and weight gain.  In late term pregnancy the abdomen will increase in size, you may even see or feel the puppies move about, and milk production may begin.  Imminent signs of delivery include change in behaviour, restlessness and nesting behaviour.  Breeders will measure the mother’s rectal temperature twice to three times daily close to the delivery date.  The mother’s temperature will drop 1-2 degrees Celsius 24 hours before whelping. 

When my dog had her pups, right before she was panting real hard like a dog does when it's hot and they will be steady looking for somewhere to have the pups.