German Shepherd Labor And Delivery Signs: Learn Labor Signs!
German Shepherd labor signs include restlessness, nesting, loss of appetite, drop in body temperature, panting, and seeking privacy. Active delivery starts with strong contractions, whining, and fluid discharge. Puppies usually arrive within 6 to12 hours after labor begins; timing varies among dogs.
This guide explains the most important labor and delivery signs so you can respond quickly and confidently when the big day arrives.
German Shepherd Pregnancy Timeline:
| Stage | Timeline | What Happens |
| Early pregnancy | Days 1 to 30 | Embryo development |
| Mid pregnancy | Days 30 to 50 | Belly growth, appetite increase |
| Late pregnancy | Days 50 to 63 | Nesting and labor signs |
| Labor & delivery | Around day 63 | Puppies born |
Most German Shepherds deliver between 58 and 68 days after ovulation. Large litters may arrive slightly earlier. Understanding this timeline helps you recognize labor signs before active birth begins.
You can learn more about the full gestation period in our detailed guide on How long are German Shepherd dogs pregnant?
Why Recognizing Labor Signs Early Matters?
Missing early labor signs can lead to:
- Emergency C-section risk
- Puppy loss
- Infection
- Exhaustion in the mother
Recognizing signs early helps you:
- Prepare a whelping box
- Monitor contractions
- Call your vet on time
- Prevent complications
Veterinary studies show that early monitoring can reduce birth complications in large breeds.
Early German Shepherd Labor Signs (12 to 24 Hours Before Birth)
Temperature Drop (Most Reliable Sign)
Normal temperature: 101 to 102.5°F
Pre-labor temperature: 97 to 99°F
Once the temperature drops below 99°F, labor usually begins within 24 hours. Start checking the temperature twice daily during the final week.
To estimate your expected due date accurately, use our dog pregnancy calculator.
Nesting Behavior:
Your German Shepherd may:
- Dig blankets
- Scratch floors
- Rearrange bedding
- Hide in quiet areas
This is a strong instinct to create a safe place for puppies.
Restlessness and Anxiety:
Common behaviors:
- Pacing
- Whining
- Clinginess
- Refusing to settle
These are classic early labor signs.
Loss of Appetite:
Many dogs stop eating 12 to 24 hours before labor.
Mild vomiting can also happen and is usually normal.
Increased Licking:
Frequent licking of the genital area means contractions are approaching.
AKC experts also emphasize the importance of understanding the signs of dog pregnancy and labor to help owners prepare and reduce complications during whelping.
Active Labor Signs (Puppies Are Coming Soon)
Panting and Shivering:
Hormone changes and contractions cause heavy panting.
Mild shivering is normal.
Visible Contractions:
The abdomen tightens every few minutes.
Contractions become stronger and closer together.
Water Breaking:
Clear fluid discharge appears before the first puppy.
Delivery usually begins within an hour.
Green or Dark Discharge:
Green discharge means placenta separation.
The first puppy should arrive within 30 minutes.
If not, call a vet immediately.
Strong Pushing:
Strong pushing means a puppy is in the birth canal.
German Shepherd Labor and Delivery Signs:
Physical signs:
- Temperature drop
- Panting
- Shivering
- Vomiting
- Contractions
- Water breaking
- Discharge
- Enlarged vulva
Behavioral signs:
- Nesting
- Restlessness
- Clinginess
- Isolation
- Whining
- Pacing
- Refusing food
- Excessive licking
When several of these appear together, labor is near or active.
Stages of German Shepherd Labor:
Stage 1: Early Labor (6 to 24 Hours)
- Temperature drop
- Nesting
- Restlessness
- Cervix dilation
No puppies yet.
Stage 2: Active Delivery
Puppies usually arrive every 20 to 60 minutes.
Normal total labor: 6 to 12 hours.
Large litters may take longer.
Stage 3: Placenta Delivery
Each puppy has a placenta.
Mothers may eat them (normal).
Too many placentas can cause diarrhea.
How to Prepare for German Shepherd Delivery?
Whelping Box Setup:
Use:
- Large box with a low entrance
- Clean towels
- Heating pad
- Gloves
- Scissors
- Puppy scale
Keep the temperature around 75 to 80°F for newborns
Proper preparation starts during pregnancy. Read our complete guide on caring for a pregnant German Shepherd to avoid last-minute stress.
Supplies Checklist:
| Item | Purpose |
| Towels | Clean puppies |
| Heating pad | Prevent hypothermia |
| Bulb syringe | Clear airways |
| Scale | Track weight |
| Vet number | Emergency help |
When to Call a Vet Immediately:
Contact a vet if:
- 30 minutes of pushing with no puppy
- 2+ hours between puppies
- Green discharge before the first puppy
- Extreme pain
- Weakness
- Labor lasting over 24 hours
Quick veterinary care can save both the mother and the puppies.
Aftercare for Mother and Puppies:
First 24 Hours:
Puppies should:
- Nurse within 1 hour
- Stay warm
- Cry normally
Mother should:
- Eat
- Drink
- Rest
Feeding After Delivery
Feed high-quality puppy food.
She may need 2 to 3× her normal calorie intake while nursing.
Choosing the best dog food for German Shepherds becomes even more important during nursing.
Common Owner Mistakes:
- Not tracking temperature
- No whelping area ready
- Interfering too much
- Ignoring warning signs
- No vet contact prepared
Preparation prevents panic during labor.
Breeder Tips:
Experienced breeders start temperature tracking around day 55.
Keep your vet’s number ready and limit visitors.
Stay calm and monitor each puppy’s arrival.
FAQ’s:
Do German Shepherds show labor signs 24 hours before birth?
Yes, Most show a temperature drop, nesting, restlessness, and loss of appetite about 12 to 24 hours before labor starts.
Should I stay with my German Shepherd during labor?
Yes, stay nearby to monitor contractions, assist if needed, and call a vet quickly if complications appear.
Can German Shepherds deliver puppies without help?
Yes, Most deliver naturally, but supervision is important in case a puppy gets stuck or labor stalls.
How long after contractions start are puppies born?
Active labor usually begins within a few hours of strong contractions, and puppies often arrive every 20 to 60 minutes until delivery is complete.
What is the safest way to prepare for a German Shepherd delivery?
Set up a clean whelping box, track temperature in the final week, keep emergency vet contact ready, and watch for early labor signs closely.
Conclusion:
Understanding German Shepherd labor and delivery signs helps you stay calm and prepared when birth begins. From temperature drops to contractions, each sign tells you what stage your dog is in. Most German Shepherds deliver safely, but close monitoring makes a big difference.
Prepare early, watch for warning signs, and keep your vet informed. With proper care and planning, your German Shepherd can have a smooth and healthy delivery.
