Stalled Labor and Delivery Problems in Dogs

Stalled labor and delivery problems refer to abnormal uterine contractions during birth. There are 2 types of stalled labor and delivery problems in dogs: primary and secondary uterine inertia.

Primary uterine inertia is a rare condition that occurs when a dog doesn’t experience contractions at all. The presence of a dark green liquid called placental fluid is the only way to confirm she’s in labor. Secondary uterine inertia occurs when the mother dog has strong contractions that decrease in strength or disappear.

Both types are a form of dystocia, or difficult birth. Several factors can cause stalled labor and delivery problems, including your dog’s genetics and environment. If your dog is displaying signs of labor and it’s close to her due date, you should monitor her closely. Seek veterinary help immediately if: 

• your dog produces placental fluid without having contractions or birthing puppies 
• there’s a delay of 2 hours or longer between puppies

The symptoms of stalled labor and delivery problems depend on the type of inertia the bitch is experiencing.

Primary Uterine Inertia

• Failure to go into labor within 70 days after ovulation
• Signs of pain or being uncomfortable, though these may be subtle
• Loss of appetite
• Pale gums
• Dark green vaginal discharge

Secondary Uterine Inertia

• Prolonged labor
• Straining without producing a pup
• Longer than two hours between pups
• Delivery of a dead pup
• Distress or illness of the mother
• Pup visibly stuck in the birth canal
• Dark green vaginal discharge

Your dog’s age and weight may cause stalled labor and delivery problems. Overweight and older dogs have a higher risk of birth difficulties. Other causes of primary and secondary inertia in dogs include:

• Small litters with only 1 or 2 puppies
• Large litters that overstretch the uterus
• Failure to produce hormones that trigger contractions
• Puppy lodged in the birth canal
• Low blood sugar
• Calcium deficiency
  
• Exhaustion of the uterine muscles
• Physical traits (narrow pelvis, uterine torsion, etc.)
• Uterine tumors or other obstructions in the birth canal
• History of uterine inertia
  

First, your veterinarian will examine your dog to determine whether an underlying condition is causing the stalled labor or delivery problems. Provide as much detail as you can about your dog's symptoms, medical history, and recent behavioral changes.

• Blood chemistry panel to check oxytocin, albumin, calcium, and glucose levels
• Urinalysis
• Vaginal examination to check for amniotic sac, presentation of the fetus, tone and dimensions of the vaginal canal
• Ultrasound to assess the health of the puppies
• X-rays of the abdomen to check for position of puppies and any blockages

To ensure the mother and puppies survive, prompt treatment is crucial. Dogs experiencing primary uterine inertia require an emergency cesarean section (C-section). Your vet may recommend oxytocin injections to stimulate contractions, although one vet notes most dogs with primary uterine inertia don’t respond to them.

In the case of secondary uterine inertia, the veterinarian may try to restart the labor and contractions. Calcium and oxytocin may be administered, but only if your dog and her puppies are in good health and not in distress. If one puppy is blocking the birth canal, your vet may try to reposition it. If a large litter is the cause, a C-section may be required. If the puppies aren't breathing upon delivery, your vet will administer oxygen.

Prompt treatment is key for a good prognosis, particularly for primary uterine inertia. If the C-section is performed too late, the puppies may die and the mother dog may develop a serious, life-threatening infection.

If your dog is able to birth the puppies safely with the help of her veterinarian, she'll be able to go home after a short observation period. Place her in a comfortable, quiet place where she and her puppies won't be disturbed by other people and animals. Your vet may prescribe opioids like tramadol for post-operative pain.

Follow all your vet's instructions, and make a note of any symptoms or behavioral changes during the recovery period.

While medicine alone (such as an injection of oxytocin) can treat some cases of stalled labor and delivery, other dogs will require an emergency C-section. The cost varies depending on the treatment but can be up to $2,500.

Caring for a pregnant or breeding dog can be expensive. Most accident and illness policies don’t cover costs related to pregnancy. But some providers, like Trupanion, offer add-ons that reimburse vet care costs. Start comparing pet insurance plans today to find the right fit for your fur-baby.