Delayed Umbilical Cord Clamping in Puppies: What Breeders Should Know
Delayed Umbilical Cord Clamping in Puppies
Learn how delayed umbilical cord clamping can support puppy health, circulation, and early stability, plus when it may not be suitable.
Delayed umbilical cord clamping, often shortened to DCC, is a practice some breeders are choosing to use during whelping. Instead of clamping and cutting the umbilical cord immediately after birth, the cord is left intact for a short period, allowing blood to continue flowing from the placenta to the puppy.
While this approach has long been discussed in human neonatal care, it is gaining interest in canine breeding, particularly among breeders focused on neonatal puppy health and gentle whelping practices.
What Is Delayed Umbilical Cord Clamping?
Delayed umbilical cord clamping means waiting anywhere from 30 seconds to a few minutes after birth before clamping and cutting the cord. During this time, the placenta can continue transferring oxygenated blood, iron, and nutrients to the puppy.
In puppies, the umbilical cord usually stops pulsing on its own. Many breeders who practise DCC wait until this pulsing slows or stops naturally before intervening.
Potential Benefits for Puppies
Research specific to dogs is still limited, but observations from breeders and parallels with other mammals suggest several possible benefits.
Improved blood volume
Allowing extra placental blood to transfer may help improve circulation and oxygen delivery in the first minutes of life.
Better iron stores
Iron is essential for growth and red blood cell production. Puppies born small or slightly weak may benefit the most.
Smoother transition to breathing
Some breeders report calmer puppies with steadier breathing when the cord is not cut immediately.
Support for weaker pups
In large litters, smaller or slower puppies may gain a valuable boost during those early moments.
How Delayed Clamping Is Done in Practice
Most breeders who use delayed clamping follow a gentle, low-intervention approach.
- Allow the bitch to deliver the puppy naturally
- Clear the puppy’s airways if needed
- Keep the puppy warm and close to the dam
- Wait for cord pulsing to slow or stop
- Clamp with umbilical clamps or forceps, tie with unwaxed dental floss, and cut using umbilical scissors
Sterile umbilical scissors, forceps, unwaxed dental floss and umbilical clamps are available from our Whelping Supplies collection and are essential to reduce infection risk.
When Delayed Clamping Is Not Recommended
Delayed clamping is not suitable in every situation. Immediate intervention is sometimes the safest option.
Avoid delaying cord clamping if:
- The puppy is not breathing and requires urgent resuscitation
- The cord is damaged or bleeding heavily
- The bitch is distressed or actively chewing cords
- A caesarean section has been performed and the vet advises otherwise
In emergencies, puppy survival always comes first and products from our Heating & Critical Care collection can increase the chance of a positive outcome. Delayed clamping should never override necessary veterinary care.
Infection and Safety Considerations
The umbilical stump is a potential entry point for bacteria. Hygiene is critical.
- Always use sterile instruments
- Keep the area clean and dry
- Monitor for redness, swelling, discharge, or odour
Use appropriate Wound Care or disinfectant products such as diluted iodine
If you notice signs of infection or a puppy becomes lethargic, veterinary attention is required immediately.
What Does the Evidence Say?
At this stage, delayed umbilical cord clamping in puppies is considered a supportive practice rather than a proven medical standard. Some breeders swear by it, others see little difference. As with many aspects of breeding, results can vary depending on litter size, dam health, and overall whelping conditions.
Always discuss whelping practices with your reproductive vet, especially if you have a history of complications.
Final Thoughts
Delayed umbilical cord clamping can be a gentle, low-risk option for some litters when conditions are calm and puppies are stable. It may support early circulation and transition to life outside the womb, particularly for smaller or slower pups. However, it is not suitable in every birth, and breeder judgement is key.
Preparation, hygiene, and knowing when to act quickly make all the difference. When in doubt, prioritise puppy safety and seek veterinary guidance.