new litter

Question
My newfoundland has given birth to 10 puppies, hew first was born 17 hours ago now and her last was born approximately 5 hours ago now but in the past hour two afterbirths have come out but from what i could see she was delivering afterbirths with each pup, she is still panting and cannot settle is this normal, the last couple of pups took nearly three hour intervals each. This is her first litter.

Answer
Hi Natalie.  Most afterbirths follow each puppy, however sometimes - for whatever reason- not always.  It is not uncommon for two afterbirths to pass at the same time, what is important is that all the afterbirths eventually pass.

In some cases, unknown to us, the mother can and will pass the afterbirth outside, while using the restroom, making it had to be completely sure that each one has passed.

Excessive panting and shivering should subside soon, but remember she just had 10 puppies, over a 17 hour period - just thinking about it is making me want to shake and pant.

Keep a close eye on her over the next 24 hrs, and if she continues to be restless, and or panting, you should contact your veterinarian. Diarrhea is normal, for a couple of days, due to eating the placentas and afterbirth, and it is also normal for her to have a vaginal discharge that may appear bloody or a greenish-black color for a few days to 2 weeks, but this does not indicate a problem unless it persists beyond 4 weeks of whelp.

Good luck, and please do not hesitate to contact me if you have additional questions.

Sincerely,
Penny DiLoreto
www.puppies-dot-com.com