(Continued)
Prolonged labour (Dystocia, difficult labour)
The prolongation of any phase of labour is called dystocia. It is due to either a birth canal which is too narrow in relation to the size of the presenting part (mechanical blockage), or to the failure of the uterus to develop enough strength to expel the foetus (uterine inertia). Often these two are related.
Dystocia is much more common in older brood bitches and those allowed to become too fat. This is why it is so important to keep your female dog trim and in top condition. Also, the constant, unremitting breeding of a female dog by non-knowledgeable ‘breeders’ or unscrupulous ones will lead, in due course,