It is possible for a dog to have more puppies after 24 hours. The pause or delay in whelping a litter is a normal occurrence and can last for as long as 24 hours, or even up to 48 hours in some cases. This phenomenon is known as “splitting” or “staggered” whelping.
During the whelping process, each puppy is born from a separate placenta within the uterus. The mother dog goes through stages of labor, with contractions helping to expel the puppies. However, there can be intervals between the birth of each puppy, and this pause is not uncommon.
The reasons for this delay can vary. Sometimes, the mother dog may need to rest and regain her strength before continuing with the labor process. Other times, the puppies may need more time to position themselves properly for birth. Additionally, the mother’s body may need time to prepare for the next stage of labor.
It is important to note that this delay does not necessarily indicate any complications or problems. As long as the mother dog is comfortable and not showing signs of distress, it is generally considered a natural event. However, if the mother dog appears to be in distress, is experiencing prolonged contractions without giving birth, or if there are any other concerns, it is crucial to seek veterinary assistance.
During this pause, it is important to keep a watchful eye on the mother dog and monitor her closely. Make sure she has access to a comfortable and quiet whelping area, provide fresh water and food, and offer gentle encouragement and support. It is also advisable to have a veterinarian’s contact information readily available in case of any emergencies or concerns.
In my personal experience as a breeder, I have encountered instances where a dog had puppies after a 24-hour pause. In one particular case, a litter of puppies was born over a span of two days, with the final puppy arriving approximately 36 hours after the first one. All the puppies were healthy and thrived, despite the staggered birth.
It is possible for a dog to have more puppies after 24 hours. The pause or delay in whelping is a natural occurrence and can last up to 48 hours. However, it is crucial to monitor the mother dog closely and seek veterinary assistance if there are any concerns or signs of distress.