Head first or butt first are both considered normal deliveries.
The time between delivering one pup and the next is quite variable, usually about 15-30 minutes, but it's pretty common to have several, and then a few more 4-24 hours later!
But, it's NOT normal for a pup to be in the actual birth canal for more than 10-15 minutes. If you can't get it out with a reasonable twist and tug...call a vet...there's probably something wrong. Wait too long and both momma dog and the pup(s) might die. Birth can be dangerous.
Once delivered, if the momma dog doesn't tear off the membrane surrounding the pup and lick it, then you need to tear it off. Then get any fluid out of the pup's mouth by gently swinging it upside down and gagging it with your finger a little. I like to suction out the back of their throat with a turkey baster. Rub the little pup vigorously until it cries a little. Tear off the umbilical cord with your fingers (if you cut it, it will bleed more) leaving about a inch attached to the belly. (if you tear it off flush, more likely to get infected etc). Leave some slime on the pup...when the momma licks off the slime it helps to create that wonderous bond of motherhood.
It's okay and pretty normal for the momma dog to ignore the first few pups while she's busy having the others. But on the other hand, it's a critical time for these pups. We need to get the pups free of their birth sacs and breathing in the first few minutes after delivery and nursing within the first couple hours. If you're not experienced, call your vet if this isn't happening.
If the pups are always crying, especially if there doesn't seem to be any milk; call your vet. At the very least, you will need to get some milk replacer. But there's often more going on...like a dangerous uterine infection.
It's common for the momma dog to have a little diarrhea or to vomit after the birthing process...all those hormone changes and all those placentas she ate, but if this lasts long, she's feverish, or not eating well after a day or so, call your vet...there's probably something wrong...like a dead undelivered pup inside.
By the way, if you're present at the birth, I like to throw the placentas away and not let the momma dog eat them, which is natural. It keeps her from getting an upset stomach and while protein rich and full of nurishing blood, she'll feel a lot better without the indigestion. But do leave at least some slimy stuff on the pups for her to lick off...it helps create the maternal bond.
Assuming momma dog and pups seem content and are cozy in whatever nesting situation you have them, there's not much you need to do those first couple of weeks after birth except enjoy and cuddle. But, here's a time table: |