how long do dogs bleed after giving birth?
Dogs typically experience a reddish-brown to dark green/black vaginal discharge, known as lochia, for up to 4-6 weeks after giving birth.
- 1Normal post-whelping discharge (lochia) can last 4 to 6 weeks.
- 2Initially, lochia is often dark green to black, then transitions to reddish-brown.
- 3The discharge should gradually decrease in volume and become lighter in color over time.
- 4Excessive bright red bleeding, foul odor, pus, or signs of illness (lethargy, fever) are abnormal and require immediate veterinary attention.
Detailed Answer
After giving birth, female dogs (bitches) normally experience a vaginal discharge called lochia. This discharge is composed of uterine lining, blood, and tissue from the placental attachment sites as the uterus involutes (returns to its normal size).
Initially, the lochia can be dark green to black, especially within the first 24-48 hours, due to the expulsion of placental material. It then typically transitions to a reddish-brown color, resembling old blood. Over the subsequent weeks, the discharge should gradually lighten in color, becoming more serosanguineous (blood-tinged fluid) or yellowish, and decrease in volume. The entire process can last up to 4 to 6 weeks.
It is crucial to monitor your dog closely during this period. While some discharge is normal, any signs of excessive bright red bleeding, a foul-smelling discharge, pus, or systemic illness such as lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, or fever (above 102.5°F or 39.2°C) indicate potential complications like metritis (uterine infection) or subinvolution of placental sites. These conditions are serious and require immediate veterinary intervention.
Published: October 27, 2026