Signs Your Dog Has a False Pregnancy
By: Responsible Group Australia Posted July 3, 2023
Whether you’re a novice dog breeder or have some experience under your belt, understanding the concept of false pregnancy in dogs is crucial. Also known as pseudopregnancy or phantom pregnancy, this phenomenon can often be confusing and worrying. It’s important for any dog breeder to recognize the signs of false pregnancy in their dog, understand why it occurs, and learn what steps to take when they encounter it.
This article contains general information. Always consult with your veterinarian for medical advice specific to your animal/s.
What Is a False Pregnancy?
False pregnancy in dogs is a condition where a non-pregnant female dog exhibits symptoms of pregnancy or even mothering behaviour. This typically occurs in the diestrus phase, or the period following heat, when the dog’s body prepares for pregnancy regardless of whether mating has occurred.
Signs of False Pregnancy
Recognising false pregnancy in dogs involves understanding and observing the various physical and behavioural signs. Regardless of the dog’s breed – whether you have a Chihuahua or a Siberian Husky – the signs can vary from subtle to quite apparent and might include the following:
- Enlarged Mammary Glands: One of the most common signs of false pregnancy is enlarged mammary glands. Your dog’s nipples might become more prominent due to increased hormone levels, which can mimic pregnancy.
- Nesting Behaviour: Your dog may start behaving as though she is about to give birth, which includes nesting behaviour. She might gather toys or other small items and treat them like her pups.
- Lethargy: Just as with a true pregnancy, a dog experiencing a false pregnancy might become less active and sleep more.
- Change in Appetite: Some dogs may lose their appetite, while others might eat more. Both scenarios can be indicative of a false pregnancy.
- Weight Gain and Abdominal Distention: You might notice your dog gaining weight and her abdomen expanding, making it seem like she is pregnant.
- Vomiting: Some dogs might experience mild nausea or vomiting, similar to morning sickness in humans.
- Milk Production: In some cases, your dog might start producing milk or a milky substance from her nipples, despite not being pregnant.
Understanding the Causes
The main cause of false pregnancy in dogs is hormonal imbalance. After a dog’s heat cycle, her body releases hormones to prepare for potential pregnancy, even if no mating has occurred. If the levels of these hormones, particularly progesterone and prolactin, remain high, they can trigger the signs of false pregnancy.
What to Do in Case of a False Pregnancy
If you suspect your dog is experiencing a false pregnancy, it’s important to consult a vet. They can perform a physical examination and potentially an ultrasound or other diagnostic tests to rule out a real pregnancy or other health issues.
In most cases, false pregnancy does not require medical treatment and will resolve on its own as hormone levels return to normal. However, it’s crucial to monitor your dog closely during this time and ensure she is comfortable.
If your dog is experiencing severe symptoms or distress, your vet might recommend treatment options, such as hormone therapy or, in extreme cases, spaying. It’s important to discuss these options with your vet to determine the best course of action for your dog’s health and wellbeing.
Prevention
It’s not always possible to prevent false pregnancies. However, maintaining a complete and detailed record of your dog’s heat cycles and any symptoms experienced can help anticipate and manage potential false pregnancies. When breeding a litter of puppies, you’ll be watching out for many of the same signs, so more experienced breeders will have a head start.
Recognising the signs of false pregnancy and understanding the causes can help novice to intermediate dog breeders navigate this often confusing phenomenon. Always remember, when in doubt, consult with a vet to ensure your dog’s health and comfort.
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