Chihuahuas

Hi! I'm SuziChi, my chihuahua is 5 1/2 yrs old. This is her second pregnancy, but I wasn't here for her first delivery my boy friend was. So, here is some back ground info:: her name is Sable, about 6.9lbs normally. We don't have exact time/day of conception about 1 wk off give or take. On our count of calender days today is her 55th day we counted thru to Mar. 25th, as her 63rd day. Her temp is 98.3 at 8:30pm this evening. Then again at 10:11pm it was the same 98.3. She's been panting pretty hard off and on all day and has been digging under the covers too. What can you tell me about how far along she is in her labor. If any one could help I'd appreciate it ! Her temp during pregnancey was about 100.3 . Thank you SuziChi.

Day 55 is a bit early for the pups to be born. 5-6 days early is the earliest you would hope they would be, any earlier and they have a smaller chance of survival from prematurity.

There is a state of pre-labor as well, and I hope this is what she is doing, in case your day count is correct.
They have a period of restlessness, etc when the mothers body is preparing for delivery. At this time she is having discomfort due to pups moving down and getting in position for birth. They will dog and pace, pant etc from the discomfort at this time too.

You will be able to tell a difference from this to when she is in full blown labor. I dont personally use the temp as a way of telling. Its not 100% accurate and females vary on how thier body responds to labor.

For those who do use it though, I am told once they get into the 98's range they will give birth within 12 hours....keep us posted.