Signs of Labor?

Question
QUESTION: We found out that our mini dachshund will be having three pups. We weren't exactly sure what date she got pregnant since the two weenies escaped and ran around the house all day when she was in heat. We planned to breed her during her next heat, but they were determined this time around.

Anyway, our vet was guessing she was about 50 to 55 days along by the size of the pups in the Xray we got on the 19th. Today she's been pacing around a lot and kind of whining when she lays down. She just seemed a bit antsy and uncomfortable. Could this be a sign she's getting ready to have her pups? And what are some other signs to look for?

Thanks in advance.

ANSWER: Some of the signs of a dog starting labor is digging like crazy, she might go off her food, panting non-stop, looking for a place to hide, this can last up to 24 hours. She may be getting ready to start. I'd stay close at hand just in case. Good luck!

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Well she had her three little ones last night on my boyfriend's bed. Heh. She wanted nothing to do with the nice whelping box he set up for her.

Just curious, are there any signs I need to look for that something may be wrong? As of now they're all looking good. Mom is nursing them, and they wiggle around making sounds. It's our first litter and I'm just nervous that I'll miss something.  

Answer
Congrats on the new puppies. Glad all are doing well. Watch for a puppy that cries constantly. If they're not getting enough milk, they'll wander around and cry. A well fed puppy has a round belly, will pile up with their siblings and sleep. Watch the temp, you don't want the pups to get cold, it's the number one killer of newborns. Make sure mom has constant access to food and water at all times. Keep an eye on her breasts, if you see a red/warm place on them, get her to the vet. If you notice the color of her milk is off, get her in. Good luck, let me know if I can help with anything else.