Whelping 101
1. Preparing for Whelping
Successful whelping begins with preparation. Before the big day arrives, create a calm, clean, and temperature-controlled environment for the expectant mother.
A designated whelping area helps her feel secure and gives you an organized space to manage supplies and track each stage of labor.
Recommended Whelping Supplies
Make sure these essentials are ready and within reach:
Whelping Box with Heat Source – Choose a sturdy, easy-to-clean setup such as the EZclassic Whelping Boxes or EZclassic Condo Sets.
Basket of Clean Towels – Keep a variety of sizes on hand: smaller ones for drying puppies and larger ones for bedding during delivery.
Washable, Reusable, Reliable Pads – EZwhelp Pee Pads provide excellent absorption and easy cleanup.
Suction (Small-tip Bulb Syringe) – Found in the EZwhelp Whelping Kit, used to clear the puppy’s airways after birth.
Accurate Scale – Track each puppy’s growth with a Puppy Scale or Baby Scale.
Whelping Log or Record Book – We recommend The Retriever Nation’s Ultimate Whelping Log & Record Book (QR code coming soon).
Blunt Tip or Umbilical Scissors and Alcohol Pads – For cutting and sterilizing umbilical cords, both included in the EZwhelp Whelping Kit.
4x4 Gauze Pads – Useful for gripping the umbilical cord when tying, cleaning small messes, or applying iodine (not included in EZwhelp kits).
Unwaxed Dental Floss – Tie puppy umbilical cords securely; included in the EZwhelp Whelping Kit.
Puppy Identification Method – Try our Newborn Puppy Collar Set (24 Pack) or use the identification tools provided in the EZwhelp Whelping Kit.
Disposable Gloves, Digital Thermometer, Lubrication, and Iodine – Found in the EZwhelp Whelping Kit.
Calcium Supplement – Use at the onset of labor. Try our Whelping Calcium Paste (30ml) or the Tums tablets included in the Whelping Kit.
Puppy Glucose Solution or Energy Drops – Helps weak pups maintain blood sugar levels.
Heat Source – Heat Lamp Combo or Heat Pad to keep puppies warm and stable.
Postnatal Multivitamin – Aids recovery and supports milk production.
Fluids for Mom – Hydration is critical. Use water, chicken/beef broth, or coconut water for added electrolytes and vitamins.
Vet’s Contact Information – Keep it easily accessible.
Paper Towels, Trash Bags, Hand Sanitizer, and Laundry Detergent – For cleanup and hygiene (hand sanitizer included in the Whelping Kit).
Milk Replacer and Tube Feeding Supplies – Found in the EZwhelp Whelping Kit, essential if supplemental feeding becomes necessary.
2. Recognizing Labor Signs
Monitoring your female’s temperature is one of the most reliable ways to predict labor. A noticeable drop (usually below 99°F) often signals that delivery will begin within 12–24 hours. Behavioral cues like nesting, restlessness, or loss of appetite can also indicate that whelping is near.
3. Record Keeping & Tracking Each Puppy
Once labor begins, documentation is essential. Whether using a structured book or a digital template, consistent record keeping ensures every detail is captured — from temperature drop to final delivery.
We recommend The Retriever Nation’s Ultimate Whelping Log & Record Book for its preformatted charts, tracking features, and breeder-focused design. https://www.theretrievernation.org/shop-2 or (QR Code Below)
4. Postpartum Monitoring & Puppy Growth
After whelping, mom and puppies require close attention. Track each puppy’s weight daily using a precise scale and look for steady gains. Watch for consistent nursing, alertness, and healthy skin tone.
Keep the whelping area warm, dry, and clean — and use EZwhelp Pads for easy maintenance between cleanings.
5. Continuing Care and Next Steps
The first two weeks are all about warmth, nutrition, and observation. As the puppies grow, introduce gentle handling, sound desensitization, and early neurological stimulation (ENS).
A structured logbook, like The Retriever Nation’s Ultimate Whelping Log, can help track milestones and support healthy development.
6. Recommended Tools & Resources
EZwhelp Whelping Kits – Complete sets with essential tools for safe delivery.
EZwhelp Whelping Boxes & Pads – Reliable, durable solutions for comfort and cleanliness.
Retriever Nation Educational Resources – The Ultimate Whelping Log & Record Book and The Ultimate Whelping Guide. https://www.theretrievernation.org/shop-2
EZwhelp Support Team – Contact us for advice on setup, product use, or general whelping preparation.
📞 Phone: +1(732)-723-7787
📧 Email: customerservice@ezwhelp.com