I just took in a small female Maltese that is ready to have her babies any minute. It was a bad situation she came from & I couldn't refuse to take her in the alternative was she would go to a shelter. My questions, What are signs she is going into labor? I have prepared a whelping box for her & have all the supplies that are needed (I have raised cocker spaniels so I am familiar with the birthing process but just never had a Maltese having babies). The people I got her from said they thought she would be due sometime this week. With my cockers they would begin to nest, pace, excessive panting what other signs might a Maltese show in the early stages. She only weighs about 8lbs now they told me she was bred by a maltese but not sure of the weight. My vet is aware & on call if needed. Any advice will be greatly appreciated.