How is fetal head diameter measured to predict due dates?

What does a drop in progesterone mean for labor timing?

How do veterinarians check for intestinal peristalsis in puppies?

Measuring Fetal Head Diameter Veterinarians measure the fetal head diameter using an abdominal ultrasound. Taking this measurement is a highly accurate way to predict a dog’s expected whelping date, provided it is done after 40 days of gestation.

Meaning of a Progesterone Drop A drop in the mother’s serum progesterone levels—specifically falling below 2.0 ng/ml (or < 3 ng/dl)—indicates that stage one labor should begin within 12 to 24 hours. When this specific hormonal drop occurs, it signals to veterinarians that the puppies are mature enough and it is safe to perform an elective cesarean section. However, veterinarians note that this drop can be inconsistent in dogs carrying very small litters (only one or two puppies), and therefore should not be solely relied upon in those cases.

Checking Intestinal Peristalsis Veterinarians check for intestinal peristalsis (the normal movement of the intestinal tract) by performing an abdominal ultrasound. They look for this movement during the final 48 hours of pregnancy because it acts as a key indicator that the puppies’ organs have completed their development and they are fully ready to be born.