What to Do When Your Dogs Are Stuck After Mating
Seeing your dogs stuck together after mating can be alarming, especially if it’s your first time witnessing this behavior. However, this situation is completely normal and part of a process known as the copulatory tie. This guide will explore why this happens, what you should and shouldn’t do, and when it’s appropriate to seek veterinary help.
Understanding the Copulatory Tie
When a female dog goes into heat, she becomes receptive to mating and may attract male dogs. During mating, once the male penetrates the female, a part of his penis called the bulbus glandis swells while the female’s vaginal muscles contract around it. This creates the ‘tie’ that keeps them physically locked for a time.
- This tie typically lasts between 5 to 45 minutes
- It ensures better semen deposition and increases chances of successful reproduction
- It’s a completely natural and essential process in canine reproduction
Often, the two dogs will stand ‘butt-to-butt’ during this tie, with the male having turned after ejaculation.
Why You Should Never Intervene
It's crucial that owners do not try to separate the dogs by force. Attempting to pull them apart can cause traumatic injuries to both dogs, including:
- Vaginal or penile trauma
- Internal bleeding
- Pain and long-term consequences on future breeding ability
Trying separation tactics like spraying with water, yelling, or pulling on their bodies are not only ineffective but dangerous.
How to Support Your Pets During the Tie
Rather than intervening physically, remain calm and supervise the dogs. Here’s how you can help:
- Keep them in a quiet, enclosed area where they can't hurt themselves
- Avoid startling them which may result in panic and injury
- Speak soothingly to the dogs, and if needed, gently pet the female to reduce stress
This tie will resolve naturally as the swelling in the male’s penis subsides and the muscles in the female relax.
When to Be Concerned
While most ties resolve without issue, watch for signs of distress:
- Tie lasting over an hour
- Yelping or multiple escape attempts, especially from first-time or anxious dogs
- Post-separation issues like limping, bleeding, or behavioral changes
In such cases, contact a veterinarian for further advice.
What If Mating Was Accidental?
If the mating wasn’t planned and a pregnancy is not desired, don’t panic. There are veterinary solutions available:
- Aglepristone injections – A progesterone blocker effective for up to 45 days post-mating
- Spaying – Surgical option even after mating
- Early pregnancy detection – Blood tests (relaxin) between days 22-27 or ultrasound after 3 weeks
These options are time-sensitive, so consult your vet promptly.
Can Neutered Males Create a Tie?
Interestingly, neutered males can still become aroused, achieve erections, and form a tie with a female. Although they will not cause a pregnancy, the same rules apply—never try to unstick them by force.
Safe Breeding Practices
Responsible dog breeding goes beyond allowing dogs to mate:
- Males should be at least 18 months old, females over 2 years
- Dogs should undergo thorough vet checks before breeding
- Let dogs rest between heat cycles to avoid overbreeding
Prevention of Unwanted Mating
The best way to avoid an unexpected copulatory tie is prevention:
- Spay or neuter your pets for guaranteed protection
- Physically separate females in heat from intact males
- Use secure enclosures and supervision during walks or playtime
Conclusion
Seeing dogs stuck together after mating can be distressing if you're not prepared, but it's a normal, natural part of canine reproduction. The most important thing is to stay calm, provide quiet supervision, and allow nature to take its course. If you have any concern—especially with accidental mating or signs of distress—consult your veterinarian for guidance.
