Calving is a difficult process for new breeders, but you need to be there to help your Cocker Spaniel get through it all. It is easier if a vet is nearby, however you should be prepared with the possibility that you will have to be the one to help your pet through this arduous process. If you really are more practical, it would be less stressful if you knew when your dog will give birth and if you already have everything prepared for this eventful occasion.
First of all, the birthing box that you built for your Cocker Spaniel should be in a comfortable area and away from too much noise or activity. For your sake, choose an area that is easy to clean. Let her stay there for a few weeks before delivery to get used to the environment and feel comfortable during delivery.
Another Cocker Spaniel birthing task that you should be prepared for is an area where you can put the puppies once they are born. It could be a basket or box that needs to be warm enough, with thick cushions, blankets, or a heating pad. If the area is too hot, the puppies will cry loudly, but if they are cold, they will whine. Make sure he is always close to the mother.
Other preparations include having a suitable disinfectant (iodine) nearby and something to tie the navel (some use dental floss). Clean towels, nasal aspirator and a scale are also needed. Some cocker spaniel mothers may be too tired to breastfeed after giving birth, so have a milk supplement ready. Have your veterinarian’s number ready to call as well regarding any complications that may arise.
Observe the dog. They will get restless: they will change position, scratch things or dig a nest. If your rectal temperature drops below 98 F, then you have between 2 and 12 hours. If you refuse to eat, delivery is definitely close to coming. She will begin to pant and lick her vulva for relief when mild contractions begin.
You don’t have to worry too much, as Cocker Spaniels give birth on their own and they won’t need much help. If he worries too much about the prey, he will get nervous. Again, all you have to do is observe that everything is fine. Abnormalities and complications such as heavy work attempts can occur without puppies being seen. You just have to know what they are and call your vet as soon as possible.
Once the puppies are out, be aware that they will need warmth and food. Make sure they have both or else they will complain crying all the time and could lead to their untimely death. In the next few weeks, check your body temperature (97 ° F to 100 ° F is normal) and weight gain. Some mothers have less breast milk, so be prepared with supplements.
Giving birth to a cocker spaniel is exhausting, but you must remember that dogs have a natural instinct to push and do it all by themselves. Your role is to make it easy for them and make sure the mother and puppies are safe.