Even though a dogs gestation period is 63 days from ovulation there are many things that can cause them to whelp early just like humans can deliver early. I have a bitch that just delivered 7 pups Sunday night and she was 58-59 days from 1st breeding. I could tell they were a little premature because of the lack of hair. I think crowding in the womb is one of the major causes of early delivery and stress is also a leading cause. All the pups so far are fine but some are very small (skinny) and I am sure that was because of the crowding in the womb. Luckily mom has lots of milk. |