How long is a dog in labor before it has the first puppy?

Answer by  HeatherDykeman (36)

Stage one of labor generally last 6 to 18 hours. Once the placental water sack "breaks" the first puppy normally arrives after 10 to 30 minutes of straining labor. After that, subsequent pups can take anywhere from ten minutes to four hours to be born.

Answer by  darthjdavis (284)

It can be anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours. Like humans, their first litter may take the longest, even 24 hours before the first puppy.

Answer by  katharine (3981)

After the dog starts having contractions the dog normally will have the first puppy within an hour or two. If labor has gone on for 12 hours or if she appears distressed take her to the vet immediately.

Answer by  susief00 (25)

There are three stages of labor for a female dog. The first stage may take from 6-24 hours. In this time the mother may be very restless and nervous. This is a good time to get her ready for the delivery by making sure she is walked and has urinated and defecated.