Developmental anomalies of central respiratory neural control contribute to newborn mortality and morbidity. Elucidation of the cellular, molecular, trophic, and genetic mechanisms involved in the formation and function of respiratory nuclei during prenatal development will provide a foundation for understanding pathologies. The pre-Bötzinger Complex (pre-BötC) is a specific group of neurons located in the ventrolateral medulla that is critical for respiratory rhythmogenesis. Thus it has become a major focus of research. Here, we provide an overview of current knowledge regarding the anatomical and functional emergence of the rodent pre-BötC during the prenatal period.