Postnatal emergencies in dogs (after whelping)
After whelping: foul vaginal discharge, fever, off food, mastitis (red painful mammary gland), or eclampsia signs — phone the vet now.
In the next 60 seconds
- Phone the emergency vet.
- Note whelping date and litter size.
- Bring temperature reading if you can take one.
Recognise the signs
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge after the first 24-48 hours
- Fever, off food, lethargy
- Hot, red, painful mammary gland (mastitis)
- Restless, panting, tremors (eclampsia — see dog-eclampsia)
- Heavy bleeding
First aid steps
- Phone the emergency vet.
- Note whelping date and litter size.
- Bring temperature reading if you can take one.
Do NOT
- Do not give human medications.
- Do not assume normal nursing fatigue.
While transporting to the vet
- Bring puppies if old enough to travel without distress.
- Phone ahead.
When to phone the vet immediately
- Foul discharge
- Fever, severe lethargy
- Tremors or seizures (eclampsia)
- Heavy bleeding
Common causes
- Retained placenta or pup
- Metritis (infected uterus)
- Mastitis
- Eclampsia (low blood calcium)
- Hypoglycaemia
- Postpartum haemorrhage
What the vet will need to know
- Whelping date and time
- Litter size and any difficulties
- Number of placentas passed
- Current symptoms
- Diet
Aftercare
- Treatment per condition — antibiotics, surgery, calcium IV.
- Puppy management — sometimes hand-feeding needed.
Prevention
- Vet plan for whelping, including emergency contacts.
- Balanced diet during pregnancy and nursing.
- Post-whelping check at the vet.
Frequently asked questions
Is some discharge after whelping normal?
Yes — small amounts of brownish discharge for up to 6 weeks. Foul smell, large volumes, or fresh blood are abnormal.
What is mastitis?
Infection of one or more mammary glands — red, hot, painful, sometimes with discoloured milk. Needs prompt antibiotics and pain relief.
When should the bitch see the vet after whelping?
Routine check 24-48 hours post-whelp recommended, plus any concerning sign before that.