Bitch in stage one labour since 5am this morning. Shaking, panting, nesting and occasionally restless. Seems to want to nest in flower bed outdoors. Having small sleeps between episodes. How long should I give for stage one labout before dashing to the vets?

Forgot to add TOY BREED

This stage can last for 24hrs and provided she isn't distressed or pushing and not getting anywhere it is a waiting game. Once the water sac has arrived the first pup should follow in 2 hrs and within an hour of serious pushing.

If there is any green discharge before a pup is born then you need to go to the vet ASAP as a placenta has seperated and the pup will die.

Hope all goes well.

>Forgot to add TOY BREED

I won't let toys go as long as this, they get too exhausted.  So I like an x-ray at this stage just to get an idea of positioning of pups.

And there is no way on earth that I would leave my toys for 2 hours after the water sack has appeared.  40 minutes is my absolute max rule.

had them at 1am last night. quickest delivery i've ever seen. 2 bitches 1 dog.

Congrats!

Well done Mum

Congrats, glad she finally got down to business.

Yaay well done