bitch post-whelping

Question
Hi.  Our English Springer Spaniel bitch had 8 healthy pups on Friday night (48 hours ago).  She is eating and drinking well, went for a short walk today, is weeing and pooing OK.  My 2 concerns are 1) she is still panting a lot - not all the time but intermittently (this did not happen when she whelped last time, but only had 6 pups).  Also I am weighing the pups twice a day and, even though they are all warm and wriggly, they have lost a lot of weight since birth.  4 of them have gained a couple of grams now, but the other 4 are still losing.  Is all this normal so soon after whelping?  There doesn't seem to be any other problem other than what I've told you.  Do I just need a little reassurance perhaps?  Thanks and hope you can reply soon.
From Clare in UK

Answer
Hi Clare,

Any puppy that is losing weight or is not consistently gaining weight needs medical attention.

I can't say why your bitch is panting so much. Bring her with you when you take the puppies to the vet, so she can be examined, and you can have the reassurance you need.


Best of luck!
Patti