False Pregnancy in Dogs: A 2025 Vet Guide by Dr Duncan Houston 🐶🍼
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False Pregnancy in Dogs: A 2025 Vet Guide by Dr Duncan Houston 🐶🍼
By Dr Duncan Houston, BVSc | July 2025
🩺 What Is False Pregnancy?
False pregnancy, or pseudocyesis, occurs in unspayed female dogs after an estrus cycle when their bodies behave as if they’re pregnant—even if they’re not. This is a normal hormonal process in dogs, but when signs become excessive or prolonged, veterinary care may be necessary. 🧠💊
🔁 Understanding the Canine Estrus Cycle
- Proestrus: Bloody vaginal discharge, swollen vulva, but won’t allow mating
- Estrus: Straw-colored discharge, accepts mating; ovulation occurs here
- Diestrus: Lasts ~70 days—dog is hormonally pregnant whether or not she’s truly pregnant
- Anestrus: Resting phase until next cycle (~6–8 months total cycle length)
After ovulation, the corpus luteum in the ovaries produces progesterone. If no pregnancy occurs, the corpus luteum gradually degenerates—but for ~70 days, the dog’s hormones still mimic pregnancy. 🧬
🐶 Signs of False Pregnancy
Typically seen 6–12 weeks after estrus:
- 🍼 Lactation (milk production)
- 🧸 Nesting and mothering behavior with toys or blankets
- 🛏️ Abdominal distension
- 🤱 Appearing to “go into labor”
📋 Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on:
- 🩺 Physical exam
- 📆 History of recent heat
- 🧪 Optional blood test (to confirm pregnancy or not after day 30)
💊 Treatment Options
Home Management (Mild Cases)
- 🚫 Avoid touching the mammary glands (stimulates more milk)
- 🦺 Use an e-collar if the dog licks her nipples
- ⏳ Most resolve on their own within 3 weeks
Medical Treatment (Moderate to Severe Cases)
- 💧 Furosemide: A diuretic to reduce milk by mild dehydration
- ❌ Avoid: Warm compresses, wrapping, or manual milk expression
Hormonal Medications
Used when lactation or behavior is persistent:
- 📉 Bromocriptine: Prolactin inhibitor; may cause nausea
- 📈 Cabergoline: Fewer side effects, more expensive
- 🧪 Metergoline: Alternative dopamine agonist
- 🟡 Vitamin B6: May help reduce milk production
✂️ Spay During False Pregnancy?
No. Spaying during diestrus (when the corpus luteum is active) can actually prolong or worsen false pregnancy. The best approach is:
- 📆 Wait until after the 70-day diestrus phase ends
- ✅ Spay when the dog has returned to hormonal inactivity
📋 False Pregnancy Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Timing | 6–12 weeks after heat cycle |
| Signs | Nesting, milk, maternal behavior, enlarged abdomen |
| Resolution | Self-limiting (3 weeks) in mild cases |
| Treatment | Avoid stimulation, e-collar, meds (prolactin inhibitors) |
| Spay timing | Wait until diestrus ends |
🔧 Ask A Vet Can Help
Not sure if your dog is pregnant or experiencing false pregnancy? Use the Ask A Vet app to share symptoms, ask questions, and get expert help on care, timing, and safe spaying. 🐾📱
🐾 Final Thoughts from Dr Duncan Houston
False pregnancy may be a normal hormonal cycle, but it can be confusing and distressing for both dogs and owners. With patience, observation, and the right treatment when needed, your dog can return to normal quickly—and spaying after recovery can prevent future episodes. 💙🐶
