Causes of pseudopregnancy in dogs

If a female dog that is sexually mature, whether mated or not, has physical and behavioral changes similar to those of pregnancy, it is a pseudopregnancy. False pregnancy in dogs is mostly caused by the continued secretion of progesterone and estrogen by the corpus luteum after ovulation, which is related to the development of the endometrium and breasts.

Symptoms of false pregnancy in dogs

Physical symptoms:

1. The coat becomes shiny;

2. Symptoms of vomiting, diarrhea, and increased appetite may occur in the early stage;

3. In the middle period, the mammary glands begin to develop, the breasts become swollen and lethargic, the abdominal circumference increases, and abdominal fat begins to accumulate;

4. During the perinatal period, dog mammary glands can produce normal milk or brown-yellow watery liquid.

Behavioral performance:

1. The initial temperament becomes gentle;

2. Increased aggressiveness in the mid-term;

3. In the perinatal period, dogs begin to make nests, become anorexic, restless, and become more aggressive.

Treatment of false pregnancy in dogs

Generally, false pregnancy in dogs will heal without treatment. However, there are also dogs with abnormal excitement, or pyometra, which require symptomatic treatment according to professional methods. For dogs with repeated pseudopregnancies, ovaries or ovariohysterectomy can be performed. In addition, the owner can suddenly reduce its diet and drinking water, while wearing a mask on its mouth to prevent it from sucking its own milk, and taking it out for more exercise, all of which can promote the early disappearance of false pregnancy.