How Long Does It Take For A Maltese To Give Birth?

Same as any other dog id say, During the first stage of labor the cervix begins to dilate and uterine contractions begin. These contractions are painful and perplexing to the dog. She will appear quite uncomfortable and restless - pacing, shivering and panting. She probably will not eat and she may even vomit. Some dogs whine persistently. Others occupy themselves building a nest. Uterine contractions, although occurring, are not as easy to see as in humans. This is the longest stage of labor. It generally lasts six to eighteen hours. By the end of this period the dog's cervix will have completely dilated for the puppies to pass. During this period keep the mother's environment quiet and calm. I usually shut them off in a darkened area such as the bathroom

http://www.2ndchance.info/caninelaborstages.htm

Here's some pointers. If there's only a puppy or two it shouldn't take that long after the water breaks and you move to stage two. Things start to move quickly then. It's stage one that takes the time, lol.

http://drnelsonsveterinaryblog.com/2009/01/01/canine-labor--when-to-call-the-vet.aspx?ref=rss
www.dogbreedinfo.com