What is False Pregnancy in Dogs?
False pregnancy is a condition in which a female dog displays signs of pregnancy, such as nesting behavior and swollen mammary glands, despite not being pregnant. It occurs due to hormonal changes that happen after the heat cycle, regardless of whether the dog has been bred or not. According to Dr. Margaret V. “Peggy” Root Kustritz, a renowned expert in small animal reproduction, almost all intact female dogs experience false pregnancy as a part of their normal hormonal cycle.
Causes of False Pregnancy in Dogs
False pregnancy in dogs is primarily caused by hormonal imbalances. During the two-month diestrus period following the heat cycle, high levels of the female sex hormone progesterone are produced. At the end of diestrus, progesterone levels drop rapidly, while concentrations of prolactin, a hormone responsible for milk production, begin to rise. These hormonal fluctuations stimulate mammary gland development and can give the appearance of a pregnant abdomen in some dogs.
Various factors can contribute to the development of false pregnancy in dogs. Spaying a female dog during diestrus can trigger false pregnancy due to the sudden removal of the ovaries and progesterone-producing tissue. Additionally, dogs that have received progesterone treatment for skin, behavior, or reproductive conditions may experience false pregnancy when the treatment is discontinued.
Symptoms of False Pregnancy in Dogs
Dogs experiencing false pregnancy may exhibit a range of physical and behavioral symptoms. The most common signs include nesting behavior, swollen mammary glands, milk production, and changes in appetite and behavior. Some dogs may even display maternal behaviors, such as carrying around toys or objects as if they were puppies. These symptoms typically appear about two months after the heat cycle and can last for up to 10 days.
Diagnosis of False Pregnancy in Dogs
If you suspect that your dog may be experiencing a false pregnancy, it is important to consult with a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis. The veterinarian will typically perform a physical examination, palpating the dog’s abdomen to rule out an actual pregnancy. Radiographs may be used to confirm the absence of fetal development. It is crucial to differentiate false pregnancy from other potential conditions, especially in cases where the dog was not knowingly bred.
Treatment for False Pregnancy in Dogs
In most cases, false pregnancy in dogs resolves on its own within a week to 10 days. However, dogs with severe symptoms may require treatment to alleviate discomfort or aggressive behavior. Dr. Root Kustritz suggests wrapping the dog’s mammary area with an elastic bandage and reducing food and water intake for a day. This technique exerts pressure on the mammary glands, signaling the brain to stop the secretion of prolactin and milk production. It is important not to stimulate the mammary glands by milking them out, as this can prolong milk production.
For dogs experiencing recurring and severe episodes of false pregnancy, an ovariohysterectomy (spay surgery) may be recommended to prevent future occurrences. It is advisable to consult with a veterinarian to determine the best course of action for each individual dog. Importantly, spay surgery should be delayed eight to 10 weeks after the heat cycle to minimize the risk of inducing false pregnancy.
Impact on the Overall Health of Dogs
The good news is that false pregnancy generally has minimal impact on a dog’s overall health. Even dogs with a history of false pregnancy are not more prone to uterine infections, such as pyometra, compared to dogs without clinical signs. It is important to remember that all intact female dogs go through the hormonal changes associated with false pregnancy, and those that exhibit clinical signs are not less fertile than those that do not show signs.
Conclusion
False pregnancy is a natural occurrence in intact female dogs and is caused by hormonal imbalances after the heat cycle. While most cases resolve on their own, severe symptoms may require treatment to alleviate discomfort. If you suspect your dog is experiencing false pregnancy, consult with a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and guidance on the best course of action. With proper care and understanding, you can help your dog navigate through this temporary hormonal phase.
Additional Information: It is crucial to provide a supportive and comforting environment for dogs experiencing false pregnancy. Monitor their behavior closely and provide them with extra attention and care during this time. Avoid breeding dogs that are prone to false pregnancy to prevent unnecessary hormonal fluctuations and potential discomfort.