Understanding False Pregnancy in Dogs: Signs, Causes, and Care
False pregnancy—also known as pseudopregnancy, pseudocyesis, or phantom pregnancy—is a condition in unspayed female dogs where they exhibit signs of being pregnant despite not having mated or conceived. This phenomenon is fairly common and is considered a normal part of a dog’s reproductive cycle.
Causes and Hormonal Triggers
False pregnancy results from natural hormonal changes following a female dog’s heat cycle. After ovulation, her ovaries produce progesterone, regardless of whether she becomes pregnant. If she does not conceive, progesterone levels drop about four to nine weeks later, which increases prolactin levels. This hormonal imbalance can cause behavioral and physical signs mimicking pregnancy.
Common Signs and Symptoms
The symptoms of a false pregnancy usually begin four to nine weeks after the heat cycle and can vary in severity. Some common signs include:
- Swollen mammary glands, sometimes secreting milk
- Lethargy or decreased interest in usual activities
- Vomiting, nausea, or fluid retention
- Abdominal distension and weight gain
- Decreased appetite
- Nesting behavior such as digging in bedding or gathering toys
- Protectiveness over toys or objects as if they were puppies
- Restlessness, anxiety, or behavioral changes
- Licking at the abdomen or attempts to self-nurse
- Aggressive or defensive behavior, especially when disturbed during nesting
- False labor or contractions
It's important to note that not every dog will display all these symptoms, and the extent can vary from cycle to cycle.
Diagnosis
Veterinarians typically diagnose false pregnancy based on history and clinical signs, particularly if the dog has not been bred. To rule out a real pregnancy or other conditions like infections or hormonal disorders, diagnostic tests such as ultrasound, X-rays, or blood work may be conducted.
Duration and Prognosis
The typical course of a false pregnancy lasts between one and four weeks. In most cases, the symptoms resolve without the need for treatment. However, if signs persist for over eight weeks, veterinary intervention is advised.
Treatment Options
Many false pregnancies clear up on their own, and supportive care is usually sufficient. Recommended actions include:
- Avoiding stimulation of the mammary glands—don’t milk or touch them unnecessarily
- Removing mothered objects—take away toys or items the dog is treating like puppies
- Using a protective collar to prevent licking or self-nursing
- Prescribing diuretics like furosemide to reduce fluid retention or lactation
- Administering sedatives if anxiety or restlessness is severe
- Hormonal medications such as cabergoline or bromocriptine may be used to reduce prolactin levels and shorten symptoms
For recurrent or severe cases, the ideal long-term solution is spaying. However, it’s crucial to avoid spaying during an active false pregnancy, as this can prolong the condition due to sudden hormonal shifts.
Preventative Measures
The most effective way to prevent false pregnancy is to spay your dog before her first heat or once symptoms of a current pseudopregnancy have resolved. Spaying not only eliminates future heat cycles and false pregnancies but also reduces the risks of various reproductive disorders, including mammary tumors and pyometra (uterine infection).
When to Contact a Veterinarian
While false pregnancies are usually harmless and temporary, consult your veterinarian if:
- Symptoms last longer than 4–6 weeks
- Your dog exhibits severe aggression or anxiety
- Her mammary glands become infected or abscessed
- You are unsure whether your dog is truly pregnant
Final Thoughts
A false pregnancy in dogs can be confusing and concerning for pet owners, especially when it mimics a real pregnancy so accurately. Being informed about the condition helps you respond appropriately. Most dogs recover fully with minimal intervention, and recurrence can be avoided through timely spaying.
