French Bulldog C-Section Step by Step

Few people, other than breeders and vets, have the opportunity to witness and understand exactly what takes place during a C Section. As you may already know, the vast majority of French Bulldogs -- and most other Bully breeds -- deliver their puppies by C Section. The combination of the large heads of the pups, and the narrow width of the pelvic area of the dam, both combine to make natural delivery difficult for Frenchies. While natural delivery may be preferable, not many breeders are willing to risk the loss of any puppies which may be caught in the birth canal, or the dangers of a last minute emergency surgery.

Count down to the delivery begins aproximately 59 days after breeding. Bitches can deliver anywhere from 58 days to 62, with a great deal of variance among bitches. Several methods can be used to decide on the bitch's most optimum time for delivery. 24 hours before the bitch is due to whelp, her temperature drops up to several full degrees. If that temperature remains low, chances are very good the bitch will go into labour within 24 - 48 hours. Progesterone levels may also be used to determine when the bitch is readying herself for labour, as can certain tell tale instinctive behaviours, such as nesting, digging and heavy panting. There are some breeders who simply schedule the C Section date based on their records of when the bitch was bred, but this is highly unreliable, and can result in taking puppies too early, or in the bitch going into hard labour and becoming distressed.

We prefer to monitor temperature and watch carefully for the bitch's own signs of labour. Once that begins, we prepare to bring her in to our vet.

Click to begin your illustrated tour of a C Section, from table to puppy homecoming.