whelpping

Question
I have a shih-poo that is about to give labor. On Saturday it will be 63 days.  Her belly is really red and hot.  Is this normal?  I have not idea what to expect.

Answer
Hi Stacie

It starts by panting, nesting and a lack of appetite.  The best thing for your female is to have a whelping box ready for her with old towel and sheets, where she can safely and quietly whelp her litter.

Did you only breed her one time?  Gestation is 63 days from when the eggs where fertilized not necessarily when the mating took place.

Good luck