Your matron will need supervision at all times. It isn't unusual for a matron to drop a puppy outside unseen. Continue her walks, but all strenuous activity should be stopped as her time draws near.
If you believe she is going into labor watch for her contractions. They will appear as ripples starting near her shoulders and running down her sides. Though labor is very hard work, dogs do not experience pain in the same manner that humans do. If all goes well, her pain will be minimal. It is not unusual for a matron to grunt, yelp or even half bark as she labors to deliver a pup. Any sign of distress or pain should be reported to your vet immediately.
Have all your supplies close at hand, including the puppy box with a heating pad, under a few towels set on low. In many cases this will not be needed but is best to have ready in case you need room to work and the first born whelps are in the way. The bottom of the whelping box should be covered with layers of paper as they will become wet and dirty and are easily removed. Add paper as needed to keep the area as dry as possible.
As your matron begins to deliver her first pup, you will see what looks like a dark balloon emerge from her vulva. Sometimes it will disappear only to reappear with the next contraction. This is normal. Allow your dog to nose and lick the sack on her own. Remember to praise her. Keep the room quiet and the number of people to a minimum. If the children wish to observe, ask them to be quiet and keep them from crowding the box as this can upset the matron.
Allow the matron to break the sack and tend to the puppy. If this is her first litter, you may have to intervene by breaking the sack to allow the whelp to breath. If the whelp shows signs of not breathing or you see bubbles coming from the nose or mouth you will need to use a small bulb syringe to clear the air way. Remember you are drawing fluid "from" the pup, not blowing air into him. So squeeze the bulb before inserting it into his nose or mouth.
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