What is the term for the labor process in female dogs?

Whelping refers specifically to the process of giving birth in dogs. This term is unique to canine reproduction, indicating the actual act of delivering puppies. Whelping encompasses all activities associated with the labor and delivery of the puppies, from the onset of contractions to the final delivery of the last puppy.

The other terms provided have broader meanings in the context of reproduction. For example, gestation refers to the entire period of pregnancy before birth occurs, which can last about 63 days in dogs. Parturition is a general term used across various animal species to describe the act of giving birth, but it does not specifically identify the process related to dogs. Birthing is a more generalized term that may apply to many animals and does not exclusively identify the specific actions associated with canine delivery. Thus, whelping is the most accurate term for the labor process in female dogs.