The symptoms of a dog giving birth at 58 days are as follows

Dogs are beloved companions, and when a female dog, also known as a bitch, is pregnant, it's a time of anticipation and care. Typically, a dog's pregnancy lasts about 63 days, but the signs of labor can start to show around day 58. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial for a pet owner to ensure the health and safety of both the mother and her puppies.

One of the earliest symptoms of labor in a dog is a decrease in her appetite. She may show less interest in her food, which is a normal part of the nesting behavior. It's important to monitor her eating habits but not to force her to eat if she's not interested.

Another sign is restlessness. The mother dog may pace around, dig at her bed, or vocalize more than usual. This is often a sign that she's looking for a comfortable place to give birth. Creating a quiet, warm, and secure area for her to nest can help ease her anxiety.

A clear indication of impending labor is the mother dog's temperature dropping. A normal dog's temperature is around 101.5 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. A drop to 99 degrees or lower often signals that labor will begin within 24 hours.

As labor approaches, the mother may start to exhibit signs of nesting. She'll be very focused on preparing her nesting area, which could involve rearranging blankets or digging into her bed. This is a natural instinct to create a safe space for her puppies.

Vaginal discharge is another symptom that can appear around day 58. This discharge is usually a clear or slightly bloody fluid, which is normal as the cervix starts to dilate. However, if the discharge is green or has a strong odor, it could indicate a problem, and a veterinarian should be consulted immediately.

During the early stages of labor, the mother dog may start to have contractions. These contractions can be subtle at first, but they will become more intense as labor progresses. It's important to stay calm and reassure the mother with gentle pets and a soft voice.

As labor becomes more intense, the mother may start to strain. This is a sign that she's pushing to deliver her puppies. It's normal for there to be a pause between puppies, but if she strains for a long time without any puppy being born, or if a puppy is stuck, immediate veterinary assistance is necessary.

Once the puppies are born, the mother will likely chew the umbilical cord and clean each puppy. She may also ingest the placenta, which is also normal behavior. It's important to monitor the puppies to ensure they are all born healthy and that the mother is able to care for them properly.

For pet owners, being prepared is key. Have your veterinarian's contact information on hand and know what to expect during the birthing process. Keep the nesting area clean and quiet, and make sure the mother has access to fresh water and food, even if she's not eating much.

In case of any concerns or if the labor seems to be taking an unusual course, don't hesitate to contact your veterinarian. They can provide guidance and support to ensure the health of the mother and her new puppies. Remember, each dog is different, and while these symptoms are common, they can vary from one animal to another. Paying close attention to your dog's behavior and health during this time is essential.