Dolly Is in the First Stage of Labor – We’re Ready!

The waiting is over — Dolly has officially started the first stage of labor! This is the “prep stage” before puppies arrive, when her body is working behind the scenes to get everything ready for delivery.

During this stage, Dolly is showing the classic signs: restlessness, nesting, and wanting me right by her side. She’s one of those mamas who finds comfort in my presence, so my comfy chair is set up right next to her whelping area. I’ll stay close, talking softly to her, and helping her stay relaxed until the real work begins.

For those curious, first-stage labor usually lasts 6–12 hours, but it can be shorter or longer, especially for first-time moms. Some of the key things we watch for during this stage include:

Panting and restlessness as her body temperature drops and contractions slowly start.

Nesting behavior like digging, shredding bedding, or circling her whelping box.

Clinginess or needing reassurance, like Dolly does, wanting me right by her side.

Clear vaginal discharge that means her body is getting ready.

Right now, we’re in that quiet period where everything is building up — the calm before the storm. Within hours, we’ll be welcoming a brand-new litter of SDG Goldens puppies into the world, and we can’t wait to share their arrival with all of you.

Stay tuned — the next update will be filled with puppy snuggles and birth announcements!

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