Hi there,
my 4 1/2 yr old pregnant bitch has been losing clear discharge for last 24hrs but about 10 to 12 sh lost her plug, it's both are first time so just looking for a bit of advice on wat happens nxt, I have everything prepared emergency numbers etc, clean towels sterile scissors cotton just incase there needed, she's been nesting for last couple of days but since her plugs come out she dit franticly she now seems happy with screwed up pile she's made lol, where both relaxed she just seems to be taking it in her stride, just wondered how long it could be before puppies will arrive plz thanku xx

My advice would be to contact you bitches breeder, bitches often follow a similar pattern to their mothers and other female relatives.

I assume that at the very least you have the bitches breeder and the stud dog mentoring you and holding your hand through this and an experienced breeder that the bitch knows on hand to be with you both when she starts whelping.

Otherwise it's like having a baby with your neighbour or non medially trained friend in attendance.

I would never advise any first time breeder to do it alone, no matter how many books you have read, timings can be perfectly within parameters yet things are actually going wrong in that whelping and only experience will tell you the difference.

My best advice would be not to leave her longer than 2 days over her due date, counting from the first mating, even if conception didn't take place immediately.    If she's in obvious distress prior to 2 days over, clearly you'd need to speak to your vet who will probably ask you to bring her in (or come out!).   Sometimes with small litters, the puppies can just 'sit' growing bigger by the day which could mean a C.Section is more likely to be needed. or at least a shot to get things started.   Be aware, sometimes a car trip can do the same .... have somebody go with you to watch your bitch, and take a box with a warm pad and your whelping gear with you.   And be prepared to pull over!    Athough I did it alone with my first litter, having a mentor, or having experienced birth yourself, can be a huge help.

Good luck!

Thanku to everybody who's replyed, I have the stud myself had him since he was a pup, I have 3 fantastic people on standby ready to step in vets have been called this morning, she's relaxed taking it in her stride no anxiety or stress very layed bk vet said to let her get on with it she's progressing nicely if I've any problems to ring bk, I think she's dealing with it better than me bless, it's just nice to know there's people out there like yourselves with advice if needed thanku all I will keep u updated xx