The American Beagler Forum

How long before the puppies arrive does the mama begin producing milk (you are actually able to express it from her)? This is a first time mama dog too.

How much do you participate in the delivery? Do you cut the cords or let mama do it herself? Do you clean the airways or just let everything happen on its own? What do you have on hand when the pups arrive? I have read a lot but I am curious what the basics are.

The arrival of "milk" is different in each bitch. I have had some that didn't get their milk until just after whelping and others that their milk has dropped a week prior. The best indicator of pending delivery is taking the dogs temp. Once the temp drops below 99, you can expect delivery within 24 to 36 hours (my experiences). You may notice she will go off feed the day of whelp and she will become very restless and may try to hide and build a "nest".
I am very involved in the whelping process. There have been times when pups would have died or possibly the bitch. To me, it's worth the nights sleep loss to ensure the best possible out come.
You might want to keep on hand for the "big day", a baby nasal aspirator (bulb syringe), sharp scissor, plenty of towels (for drying off babies), iodine to dip cord stump (when you have to cut it), LOTS of coffee, and your vet or emergency clinic phone number (just in case).