[header] How to whelp and raise a single puppy [title] Clip your dog before it gives birth. [step] About a week before your puppy's expected birth date, you should clip your dog's hair to prevent birth fluids-which are difficult to remove-from getting matted in it. Trim your dog's hair around the vulva and belly using a pair of dog shears. 
The hair from the tail to ankles should be uniformly cut short. [title] Provide a comfortable space for your dog.