What to Do if a Puppy is Born Not Breathing

When a Puppy is Born Not Breathing: What to Do

Learn what to do if a puppy is born not breathing. Step-by-step guide for breeders to safely revive newborn puppies during whelping.

Bringing new puppies into the world is a moment full of anticipation and excitement, but sometimes things don’t go as smoothly as we’d like. One of the most distressing situations a breeder can face is when a puppy is born not breathing. While this can be frightening, knowing the right steps to take can mean the difference between life and loss.

Establish that the Puppy is not Breathing

A lack of chest movement is the most obvious sign that a puppy isn't breathing. Watch the puppy's chest closely for the rise and fall that shows if the pup is breathing.

Puppies typically make little noises, but a silent newborn could be in trouble and require immediate care.

If a puppy isn't getting enough oxygen, its gums will look pale or have a blue tint. This is a definite sign the puppy isn't breathing properly and requires immediate help.

Stay Calm and Act Quickly

The first step is to remain calm. Puppies can sometimes appear lifeless at birth, but many can be successfully revived with prompt action. Having your Whelping Kit and Heating and Critical Care products on hand ensures you have everything you need to help in emergency situations.

Clear the Airways

Gently remove membranes and fluid from the puppy's nose and mouth with a clean Microfibre Towel. Be gentle but thorough. Positioning the puppy with its head lower than its body can also help drain fluids from the lungs and airway, making it easier for the puppy to breathe.

Use a Nose and Throat Bulb Aspirator, a Dee-Lee Mucus Extractor or the aspirator from the One Puff Puppy Kitten Aspirator and Resuscitator Kit to clear the puppy's mouth and nose of mucus.

Stimulate Breathing

Rub the puppy body, especially the chest area, briskly but gently with a warm Microfibre Towel to stimulate circulation and encourage those first breaths. 

You can gently flick the puppy’s chest, paws and ears with your fingers or blow softly on their nose to stimulate the pup.

Avoid swinging the puppy forcefully — this can cause brain injury.

Use Acupuncture Point GV26 which is located between the pup's nose and upper lip, this point can be activated with a a fingernail or small needle to promote breathing. 

Provide Assisted Breathing

If the Puppy Still isn’t Breathing:

If available, an oxygen source such as an oxygen concentrator with an oxygen mask designed for neonates is ideal.

Or if you have a One Puff Aspirator / Resuscitator Kit, use the resuscitator on the pup.

If neither of those are available:

Provide Rescue Breaths

• Place your mouth over the puppy’s nose and mouth.
• Blow a very small puff of air — just enough for the chest to rise.
• Give one breath every 2–3 seconds (around 20–30 breaths per minute).

Chest Compressions

If the puppy has no heartbeat or isn’t responding to rescue breaths:

• Place the puppy on a firm surface on its back.
• Use your thumb and forefinger to gently compress the chest, just behind the front legs.
• Compress about one-third of the chest depth.
• Aim for 120 compressions per minute (about two per second).

Combine Breaths and Compressions

• Give 30 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths.
• Continue the cycle, checking every minute for signs of breathing or a heartbeat. 

Continue CPR until the puppy starts breathing on its own or until you can get to a vets. A vet can provide oxygen, medications, or resuscitation techniques not available at home.

Keep the Puppy Warm

Hypothermia is a major risk for non-breathing or weak puppies. Once breathing starts, place the puppy on a Heating Pad or under a Heat Lamp to maintain body temperature.

Final Thoughts

Preparation is key. Having the right tools in your whelping supplies and knowing how to use them can save lives. While not every puppy can be revived, being ready and confident in your response gives each one the best possible chance.