my bitch has 3 5 day old pups.  mum and babies seem to be doing fine (touch wood).  the one concern i do have is that she pants extremely heavily when the pups are feeding, is this normal?  she is absolutely fine for the rest of the time but this is a bit of a worry.

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I'm sure someone with more experience will be along soon to advise you but in the meantime - Yes, I think it is perfectly normal. My bitch done the same for some time after giving birth...I think it's to do with the uterus returning to normal? Jane :)

Hi,
It's perfectly normal for the bitch to pant. Our two bitches both panted for the first week or so. This time we reduced the room temp to 72 degrees and this helped a little, just ensure that she has access to plenty of fluids.

thanks, its so nice to be reassured by someone who has been through the same