My Golden Retriever, Remy,is due to whelp very soon. I am concerned because she is 8 years old and this is her first litter. We had a Newfie that died last year at 10 years old and he was fixed. We got an Austrailian Shepherd and he just turned one year old on June 9th. When Remy went into heat we seperated them but of course he found a way to get to her and well, here we are. Should I be concerned about her age? Also I was wondering what the optimal temperature of the room where the puppies will be kept should be?

You should be concerned any time a dog is pregnant, regardless of age. Birthing is dangerous not only to the mother but the pups as well. Did you consult your vet when you discovered she was pregnant? You could have had her spayed, aborting the litter, and you wouldn't have to deal with the burden of your mistake. I hope you contact you vet ASAP and seek assistance from someone who's qualified and not from a nameless person on the internet.

I think a vet is a must as well.

If you think she'll go tonight or before you can get her to a vet, my best advice is make sure she has a good area ready. Provide a place in your house where she feels safe and put down lots of bedding. For our dog, we gave her a large box (with the sides cut down) filled with shredded newspaper. When she inspected it and decided it was a good place, she began shredding the paper more and arranging things, that's how we knew it was almost time. Also, of course make sure she has access to plenty of water.

I really do agree with the previous advice though, consult a vet, even if it's only over the phone.

The Whelping box needs to be about 85 degrees. Yes, I would be concerned b/c at her age, she is considered "senior". Have an emergency vet's number. Most dogs will go into labor when everything is quiet. Have you whelped puppies before?
I have whelped a handfull of litters, if you have any more questions, here is a GREAT place to find out all kinds of info.
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/breedingpregnancyguide.htm

Originally Posted by marselle1967

My Golden Retriever, Remy,is due to whelp very soon. I am concerned because she is 8 years old and this is her first litter. We had a Newfie that died last year at 10 years old and he was fixed. We got an Austrailian Shepherd and he just turned one year old on June 9th. When Remy went into heat we seperated them but of course he found a way to get to her and well, here we are. Should I be concerned about her age? Also I was wondering what the optimal temperature of the room where the puppies will be kept should be?

You should definitely be concerned due to her age. Also, how are her hips? Will she even know what to do with pups at her advanced age? Why didn't you get her fixed if you didn't want pups? You should have been more adamant about keeping them apart.

Temp should be around 80.