How Long Do Dogs Need to Expel Postpartum Discharge?

The discharge of lochia in dogs following childbirth typically lasts for about a week, though this can vary slightly depending on the individual dog and its breed. Normally, the initial lochia is bright red, containing blood, secretions, and uterine lining materials. Around the 4th to 5th day postpartum, the color of the lochia gradually shifts to brown or pale yellow, and its consistency becomes thinner. By approximately one to ten days postpartum, the volume of the uterine lochia significantly decreases, eventually ceasing altogether.

Caution: If a female dog's lochia discharge persists for more than two weeks without stopping, or if there are signs of excessive discharge, abnormal color, foulsmelling secretions, elevated body temperature, decreased appetite, or listlessness, it may indicate issues such as uterine infection, placental retention, or uterine rupture. In such cases, immediate veterinary care is necessary.

How to Treat Postpartum Lochia in Dogs?

1. Observation and Monitoring: For normal postpartum lochia, the process usually involves a bright red color and abundant volume at first, which then gradually fades and diminishes. This phase can last from 2 to 4 weeks. During this time, owners should closely monitor the color, amount, and odor of the lochia, as well as the dog's mental state, appetite, and body temperature, and keep detailed records.

2. Hygiene Care: Gently wipe the dog's vulva area with warm water or a veterinarianrecommended cleaning solution daily to maintain cleanliness and dryness. Additionally, it's advisable to lay down a layer of puppy pads in the dog's nesting area and change them regularly to prevent contamination from the lochia.

3. Nutritional Support: For the first 1 to 2 weeks postpartum, provide the mother dog with easily digestible food rich in protein, minerals, and vitamins to ensure she receives adequate nutrition for her recovery and milk production.

4. Hydration: Ensure the dog has access to plenty of clean water at all times to replenish fluids lost during lactation and lochia discharge.

5. Rest and Activity Restrictions: In the early postpartum period, allow the dog ample rest and avoid activities like play, training, and bathing to aid in the normal expulsion of lochia and overall recovery.

6. Medication: If the dog's lochia appears abnormal (such as darker color, increased volume, prolonged duration, or foul odor), administer antibiotics, hemostatic drugs, and oxytocin (to stimulate uterine contractions and reduce bleeding) under the guidance of a veterinarian.

7. Surgical Intervention: In rare cases, such as severe endometritis, pyometra, or placental retention, surgical procedures like uterine lavage or ovariohysterectomy (whether to retain the ovaries depends on the specific situation) may be necessary.

In summary, postpartum lochia in dogs is a normal physiological process. However, if the lochia lasts too long or is accompanied by symptoms like a foul smell, excessive volume, fever, or loss of appetite, it's crucial to seek veterinary attention promptly. In such cases, medication or surgical treatment may be necessary.