Basic signs are panting, scrapping up her bedding or newspaper frantically, and turning round in her bed frequently, licking herself and sometimes whining. Shortly after this you will notice her straining, and before long a bubble will emerge from her back end, maybe going back in and coming out a couple of times, and this should then slip to the floor and hey presto you have your first puppy. If she does not show any interest you must open the sac and get the puppy out so it can breathe. She will then hopefully allow the puppy to find a teat and then it all starts over again. Most bitches settle down and look content when the last puppy has been born. Read all you can about whelping, let your vet know your bitch is due in case of problems (they would rather have some indication of whether they might be called out during the night) and try to get a friend to stand by in case of emergency.