- 1). Examine your dog's teats. A lactating dog will have soft and supple rounded areas underneath each teat. If your dog's teats are flat or empty, she may not be lactating.
- 2). Express one of your dog's teats by gently squeezing or pressing the sides together with your fingers. A few drops of white liquid will come from the opening of the nipple. This liquid is milk and is proof that your dog is lactating.
- 3). Listen to the newborn puppies while they suckle for gulping sounds. If milk is flowing, you will hear gulping and swallowing from the puppies. For up to 48 hours after birth, the mother may not be giving milk, but the consistent suckling from her puppies will stimulate her to lactate.
- 4). Observe your dog for signs of relaxation while the puppies suckle. Before she begins to actively lactate, your dog may remain awake and alert, monitoring her babies. Once the milk begins to flow, it is common for the mother dog to lay her head down, close her eyes and relax for the first time since giving birth.
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