Miscarriage in Dogs​

Miscarriage in Dogs

What Is Miscarriage in Dogs?

A miscarriage, also known as spontaneous abortion, occurs when a pregnant dog loses one or more puppies during gestation. It can happen early (before signs of pregnancy are obvious) or later in the term, sometimes with visible symptoms, and other times without warning.

Some miscarriages result in full pregnancy loss. Others may affect just one or two embryos, with the rest of the litter carried to term.

Whether you’re an experienced breeder or preparing for your first litter, understanding the causes and warning signs of miscarriage in dogs helps protect the health of your dam and future pups.

Causes of Miscarriage in Dogs

There is no single cause for miscarriage in dogs. The risk increases when multiple factors are at play.

Common causes include:

  • Hormonal imbalances – such as low progesterone
  • Infections – including canine herpesvirus, E. coli, or brucellosis
  • Poor uterine health – from scarring, cysts, or pyometra
  • Genetic abnormalities – in embryos or due to inbreeding
  • Trauma or stress – especially in early pregnancy
  • Nutritional deficiencies – particularly in calcium or folic acid
  • Medications or toxins – exposure during pregnancy
  • Age or fertility issues – in older dams or those with irregular heat cycles

Signs of Miscarriage in Dogs

Some miscarriages occur without any visible signs, particularly in early pregnancy. Others present clear symptoms that breeders should treat as emergencies.

Possible signs include:

  • Vaginal bleeding or unusual discharge
  • Sudden drop in appetite or energy
  • Visible expulsion of foetal tissue
  • Signs of abdominal pain or cramping
  • Fever or signs of infection
  • Cessation of mammary gland development
  • Reabsorption of pregnancy confirmed by ultrasound

Always contact your vet immediately if you notice any abnormal signs in a pregnant dog.

How to Diagnose Miscarriage

Veterinary diagnosis may involve:

  • Ultrasound scans – to confirm the presence or loss of foetuses
  • Progesterone testing – to assess hormonal levels
  • Blood work and cultures – to detect infections
  • Vaginal cytology or swabs – for bacterial or viral causes

Early detection can make a difference in preventing further loss or protecting future fertility.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Pyometra in Dogs

Vets typically diagnose pyometra through a combination of:

  • Physical examination
  • Bloodwork to check for elevated white cell counts
  • Ultrasound or X-rays to confirm an enlarged, pus-filled uterus

Treatment options:

  • Emergency surgery (ovariohysterectomy): Most common and often life-saving
  • Medical management: Only used in select cases for breeding dogs with open pyometra and no complications

Even with successful treatment, future fertility is not guaranteed. Most vets recommend retiring a dog from breeding after pyometra.

Managing Miscarriage in Dogs

If miscarriage occurs, treatment depends on the cause and stage of pregnancy. Options may include:

  • Antibiotics for infections
  • Progesterone support
  • Uterine cleaning or medication to prevent retained tissue
  • Surgery in severe or life-threatening cases
  • Rest, hydration, and nutritional support during recovery

Vets may also recommend delaying future breeding until the dog’s reproductive health has fully stabilised.

Preventing Miscarriage in Dogs

Responsible breeders take proactive steps to minimise risk and support healthy pregnancies.

Prevention strategies include:

  • Genetic screening of breeding pairs
  • Regular vet checks before and during pregnancy
  • Ensuring up-to-date vaccinations and parasite control
  • Avoiding stressful environments during gestation
  • Using hormone monitoring (e.g., progesterone testing)
  • Supplementing with vet-approved prenatal nutrients
  • Avoiding excessive handling or activity in late pregnancy

RPBA members receive access to breeding checklists and litter tracking templates to help monitor each stage from mating to whelping.

Join RPBA and Breed with Confidence

Miscarriage in dogs is heartbreaking, but with the right knowledge and support, many cases can be prevented or better managed. RPBA is here to help you every step of the way. We believe supporting breeders leads to better outcomes for dogs, litters, and owners alike. Not a member yet? Join RPBA today and gain access to trusted breeding tools and expert guidance.

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Calcium for Pregnant Dog

Calcium For Whelping Dogs

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Calcium and the Whelping Itself

Calcium drives uterine contractions. A bitch low in available calcium can develop weak or stalled labour, which is one cause of primary uterine inertia. That is why calcium comes up so often in whelping discussions, and why it is also so often misused.

What We Stock

Calcium syrup

Around $40 for 250ml and around $120 for a litre. Liquid, for fast absorption.

Seaweed calcium powder

Around $23 for 200g, for ongoing supplementation through lactation.

The Rule That Matters

Do not supplement calcium through pregnancy. Doing so suppresses the parathyroid response and can leave her less able to mobilise calcium when labour begins, which is the opposite of what you want. Supplementation belongs during whelping and lactation, on your vet's instruction.

During Labour

Some vets advise oral calcium between puppies to support contractions. Some do not. It depends on the bitch, the breed and how the labour is progressing, and it is a decision to make with your vet on the night rather than from a forum post.

When to Stop and Call

More than two hours of strong contractions with no puppy, more than four hours between puppies, green discharge before the first puppy, or a bitch who is exhausted and has stopped trying. None of those are calcium problems.

Trusted by RPBA Breeders

Members have their vet's after hours number written on the whelping box and a plan agreed before the due date.

  • Troy Calcium Syrup Troy Calcium Syrup A$45.99
    Troy Calcium Syrup Support your pet’s nutritional needs with Troy Calcium Syrup, a liquid calcium supplement designed for puppies, kittens and other pets requiring additional calcium as directed. The liquid formula is easy to measure and administer, making it a practical option for breeders and pet owners following an appropriate supplementation plan. Why Pet Owners Choose Troy Calcium Syrup Liquid calcium supplement for easier administration Suitable for puppies and kittens when used as directed Useful for breeders managing growing or nursing animals Easy to measure compared with tablets Compact bottle for storing with breeder and pet-care supplies Trusted Troy animal-care product Liquid Calcium Supplement Calcium is an essential mineral involved in normal bone, teeth and muscle function. Troy Calcium Syrup provides calcium in an easy-to-administer liquid format when supplementation is appropriate for your pet. Always use the product according to the directions on the label or advice from your veterinarian. For Puppies, Kittens and Nursing Pets This supplement may be suitable for growing puppies and kittens or nursing pets where additional calcium has been recommended as part of their nutritional care. Calcium requirements vary between animals, so supplementation should be based on your pet’s diet, life stage and individual needs. Easy Liquid Administration The liquid formulation makes it simple to measure the required amount without needing to divide tablets or capsules. Use only the amount stated on the product label or recommended by your veterinarian. Do not increase the dose without professional advice. Important Use Information Read the product label before use and follow all dosage, frequency and storage directions provided by the manufacturer. Too much calcium can be harmful, particularly in growing animals. Speak with your veterinarian before supplementing if your pet is already receiving a complete and balanced diet, is pregnant or nursing, has a medical condition or is taking other supplements or medications. If you are unsure whether your pet needs additional calcium, ask your veterinarian before use. Looking for more breeder care products? Explore our breeder essentials for puppy, kitten, pregnancy and whelping supplies.
  • Troy Nutripet: High Calorie Diet Supplement Troy Nutripet: High Calorie Diet Supplement A$24.99
    Troy Nutripet - High-Energy Nutrition for Dogs & Cats Allow your pet to recover with Troy Nutripet, a high-calorie and vitamin-enriched supplement that is perfect for pets who require a little extra help. Whether your pet is recovering from an illness or just needs a little extra energy and enrichment, Troy Nutripet has all the elements your pet needs in every serve. Why Troy Nutripet is Right for Your Pet: • High-Energy Supplement for Fast Recovery - With 1500 kJ of metabolisable energy per 100 g of Troy Nutripet, this supplement contains fats, protein and carbohydrates for fast energy recovery in pets who need an extra energy boost. • Contains Vitamins & Minerals - Vitamins A, D, E, B1, B2, B6, B12, Nicotinamide, Calcium Pantothenate, Folic Acid, Vitamins B-complex, and minerals such as Iron, Magnesium, Manganese and Iodine work together to provide long-term general well-being to your pet. • Great Taste, Easy to Administer - Troy Nutripet is so delicious that even the pickiest pets cannot turn their noses away from its aroma and flavour. Additionally, its unique gel form makes it easy to administer, especially to picky pets who will not take tablets. Supplementation for Any Animal from Puppy to Adult: • Recovery support • Appetite stimulant • High-energy supplement • full nutrition substitute if otherwise unavailable. How to Administer Troy Nutripet: • For appetite stimulation / recovery: give 10 g (two 10 cm strips) of Troy Nutripet once daily for every 5 kg of body weight. • For a primary nutritional source: give 15 g (three 10 cm strips) of Troy Nutripet once daily for every 5 kg of body weight. • Note: For the first time giving Troy Nutripet to your pet, start giving it in small doses on the gums, as most pets will take to the taste. Why Pet Owners Use Troy Nutripet: Supplementations of Troy Nutripet are used for pets who require additional care, such as after surgery or when they are ill. Additionally, if your pet is not eating enough, Troy Nutripet will provide them with the energy and nutrients required for weight maintenance with additional energy support. Help Your Pet Recover with Troy Nutripet Give your dog or cat the nutrients they need to get back on track. Add Troy Nutripet to your cart today! Express Shipping Available
  • Vetnex Seaweed Calcium Powder 200g Vetnex Seaweed Calcium Powder 200g A$35.99
    Seaweed Calcium Powder for Pets 200g Support your dog's or cat’s daily mineral intake with Seaweed Calcium Powder for Pets 200g.The calcium in this powder comes from calcareous marine algae from the North Atlantic Ocean. Stop Calcium Support Feeling Complicated. Your pets may need extra calcium support for a variety of reasons. Whether your pet is growing, ageing, pregnant, nursing, or eating a raw diet, calcium is an essential mineral for their bodies to perform normally. This seaweed calcium powder is odourless, so it will dissolve easily into your pet’s food. Why Pet Owners Choose This Seaweed Calcium Powder • For dogs and cats • Natural plant-based calcium • 33% bioavailable calcium • Contains minerals like magnesium • Odourless powder easily mixes into food • For raw and homemade diets Built for Bone and Mineral Support • Supports healthy bones and teeth • Supports normal muscle and nerve function • For growing puppies and kittens • For ageing pets • For pregnant and nursing animals (as directed) • 200g premium size Designed for Dogs and Cats A seaweed calcium powder blend created for dogs and cats of all ages, breeds, and life stages. Ideal for raw diets, homemade diets, and any pet needing an extra boost of calcium for their diet. Product Details Seaweed Calcium Powder for Pets 200g contains: • 200g • 33% bioavailable calcium Feeding Note Add to your pet’s food. Consult your veterinarian prior to giving it to pregnant pets, unwell pets, pets on other supplements, or pets with a medical condition. A Simple Way to Support Daily Minerals Give your dog or cat a natural seaweed calcium powder blend that supports their daily needs for minerals for healthy bones, teeth, muscles, and overall health. Add Seaweed Calcium Powder for Pets, 200g, to your cart today.
  • Vetsense 250ml Calcium Syrup Vetsense 250ml Calcium Syrup A$39.95
    Calcium Syrup for Pets 250ml Support your pet’s daily nutrition with calcium syrup for pets (250 ml).Made from fresh goat milk sourced from Australian and New Zealand goat farms, this natural powder is tasty, easy to digest, and easy to mix into your pet’s food or drinking water. Stop Sensitive Feeding Feeling Difficult. Some pets require a gentler nutritional option than others. Goat milk powder is rich in vitamins, minerals, electrolytes, enzymes, and fatty acids that your dogs and cats will enjoy. Why Pet Owners Choose Goat Milk Powder • Suitable for dogs and cats • Made from Australian and New Zealand goat milk • Naturally tasty milk flavour • Easy to mix into wet food, dry food, or water • Low lactose content • Suitable for puppies, kittens, adult dogs and cats, and elderly pets Built for Gentle Nutritional Support • Rich in protein and other essential nutrients that your pets need • Supports healthy growth and development • Gentle nutritional option for pets with sensitive tummies • Useful for weaning or feeding support • Gentle nutritional option for elderly pets • 250g of premium powder is easy to store and serve. Designed for Dogs and Cats • Puppies and kittens • Adult dogs and cats • Senior pets • Weaning support • Sensitive tummies • Fussy eaters • Daily nutritional feeding for your pets Product Details • 250g Feeding Note Mix with water, wet food or dry food as per your pet’s needs. Introduce new foods gradually into your pet’s diet. Please consult your veterinarian regarding specific dietary needs. A Simple Way to Add Gentle Nutrition to Your Pet’s Diet Give your dog or cat a natural powdered goat milk that is easily digestible and naturally tasty. Add Calcium Syrup for Pets, 250 ml, to your cart today. Meta Description Vetnex Goat Milk Powder, 250g, for dogs and cats. Buy now from the best online pet store in the country for a tasty powdered goat milk with Australian and New Zealand origins.
  • Vetsense Calcium Syrup 1 Litre Vetsense Calcium Syrup 1 Litre A$119.95
    Calcium Syrup for Pets 1 Litre Support your dog's or cat’s daily nutrition with Calcium Syrup 1 Litre. A palatable calcium supplement for dogs and cats of all ages. Easily mixed into food. Stop Calcium Support Feeling Difficult. Some pets require additional nutritional support throughout their lives. Calcium syrup for pets provides an easy way to add calcium to your pet’s diet. Available in a syrup format for easy mixing into food. Why Pet Owners Choose Calcium Syrup • Suitable for dogs and cats of all ages • Highly palatable syrup formula • Easy to mix into food • Helps support growth and development • Suitable for a variety of diets • The larger 1-litre size suits ongoing use. Built for Everyday Nutritional Support • Useful for dogs and cats • Syrup format for easy feeding • Helps add calcium to your pet’s diet • Great for pet owners, breeders, and carers • Can be used as part of a feeding routine • Simple to keep with pet nutrition supplies Designed for Dogs and Cats Ideal for growing pets, calcium support, nutritional supplementation and carers looking to support the health of their pets through daily routines, whether breeder care kits or daily nutrition supplements. Product Details • Size: 1 litre • Key ingredient: 22 mg/mL calcium as calcium glubionate and calcium lactobionate. Care Note Always follow the directions on the product label. Ask your vet before giving it to your pet if your pet is pregnant, nursing, unwell or on other supplements or dietary requirements. A Simple Way to Support Pet Nutrition Add calcium syrup to your pet’s feeding routine for easy daily nutritional support. Add calcium syrup, 1 litre, to your cart today.
  • Wombaroo Puppy Milk Replacer Wombaroo Puppy Milk Replacer A$15.00 - A$245.00
    Wombaroo Puppy Milk Replacer Support puppies that need additional feeding with Wombaroo Puppy Milk Replacer, a powdered milk formula designed to provide nutrition for young dogs when their mother’s milk is unavailable or supplementary feeding is required. It can be used as part of a feeding plan for orphaned puppies, larger litters or puppies that require extra nutritional support. Why Breeders Choose Wombaroo Puppy Milk Replacer Designed specifically for puppies Powdered formula for easy preparation Useful for supplementary feeding Suitable for orphaned puppies when used as directed Practical for breeders managing larger litters Available in multiple pack sizes Available Sizes 215g 1kg 5kg Choose a pack size based on the number of puppies being fed and the amount required for your feeding program. Made for Puppy Feeding Wombaroo Puppy Milk Replacer is formulated for young dogs and can be used when puppies are not receiving enough milk from their mother or when hand feeding is required. Always prepare the formula according to the manufacturer’s mixing instructions and offer the recommended amount based on the puppy’s age, weight and feeding needs. Useful for Breeders and Newborn Puppy Care Keep puppy milk replacer with your whelping and newborn-care supplies so feeding support is available when needed. For larger litters, regular weighing can help you monitor each puppy’s progress and identify puppies that may require closer attention. Preparing and Feeding the Formula Prepare each feed according to the directions on the product packaging using clean feeding equipment and the recommended water temperature. Discard prepared formula according to the manufacturer’s storage instructions and clean bottles, syringes or feeding equipment thoroughly after each use. Important Feeding Information Newborn puppies can be vulnerable to feeding problems and aspiration. Use appropriate puppy feeding equipment and feed slowly. If a puppy is weak, refusing feeds, losing weight, failing to gain weight, coughing during feeding or showing signs of illness, contact your veterinarian promptly. Looking for more newborn puppy supplies? Explore our puppy feeding essentials for feeding bottles, nipples, syringes and breeder-care products.
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