Recognising Foetal Distress in Pregnant Bitches
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Recognising Foetal Distress in Pregnant Dogs
Learn the signs of foetal distress in pregnant bitches, what’s normal, what’s not, and when urgent veterinary care is needed.
Foetal distress during canine pregnancy can develop quietly, without obvious warning signs. For breeders, knowing how to recognise potential problems early is critical. Prompt veterinary care can mean the difference between losing puppies and delivering a healthy litter.
This guide explains foetal distress in clear, practical terms, what to watch for at home, and when you should contact your vet without delay.
What Is Foetal Distress?
Foetal distress refers to a situation where one or more puppies are not receiving enough oxygen, nutrients, or support from the uterus and placenta. This can occur during late pregnancy or just before labour and may affect individual puppies or the entire litter.
Importantly, foetal distress cannot be confirmed by touch alone. Veterinary assessment is always required.
Common Causes of Foetal Distress
Foetal distress may be linked to:
- Placental insufficiency (poor blood or oxygen supply)
- Infection within the uterus
- Overcrowding in large litters
- Hormonal imbalance
- Prolonged or abnormal pregnancy
- Maternal illness or stress
Some causes develop gradually, while others occur suddenly.
Warning Signs Breeders Should Watch For
Changes in Foetal Movement
- Sudden reduction or complete absence of movement after day 55
- Previously strong movement that stops abruptly
- No detectable movement close to the expected due date
While puppies do rest, prolonged absence of movement is a red flag.
Behavioural Changes in the Bitch
- Lethargy or weakness
- Refusal to eat for more than 24 hours (outside normal pre-labour appetite changes)
- Signs of pain, distress, or collapse
- Panting or restlessness without progression to labour
- Abnormal Vaginal Discharge
Contact your vet urgently if you see:
- Green discharge before labour
- Bloody discharge not associated with normal whelping
- Foul-smelling fluid
These signs may indicate foetal death or uterine infection.
What Is Considered Normal?
Not every change means distress. Normal late pregnancy changes can include:
- Short quiet periods with reduced foetal movement
- Restlessness and nesting close to labour
- Temporary appetite changes
The key concern is sudden or persistent changes, especially when combined with signs of illness in the bitch.
How Vets Assess Foetal Distress
Veterinary diagnosis may include:
- Ultrasound to assess heartbeats and foetal activity
- X-ray (after day 55) to assess litter size and positioning
- Blood tests if infection or metabolic issues are suspected
These tools provide information that hands-on checks cannot.
What to Do If You Suspect Foetal Distress
If you are concerned:
- Contact your vet immediately
- Keep the bitch calm and warm
- Do not attempt home treatments or supplements
- Avoid unnecessary handling or abdominal pressure
Delaying care can result in loss of puppies or serious complications for the bitch.
Preparing for Emergencies
Being prepared reduces panic and improves outcomes.
Breeders should have:
- A fully stocked whelping supplies kit such as those offered in our Whelping Kits Collection.
- Reliable heating and critical care equipment which can be found in our Heating & Critical Care Collection.
- Your vet’s after-hours contact details readily available
Preparation does not replace veterinary care, but it supports safe management when help is on the way.
When Immediate Veterinary Care Is Essential
Seek urgent help if:
- There is no foetal movement near term
- The bitch appears unwell or in pain
- Discharge or bleeding occurs
- Labour begins but stalls or does not progress
Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, it’s better to act early.
Final Thoughts
Recognising foetal distress in pregnant bitches requires careful observation, not constant handling. Sudden changes in movement, behaviour, or discharge should never be ignored.
Responsible breeding means knowing when to monitor quietly and when to involve your vet. Early intervention saves lives and gives both the bitch and her puppies the best possible chance of a safe outcome.