False pregnancy in dogs is a syndrome characterized by physical and mental changes that occur between weeks 4 and 9 after heat and last 3 to 14 weeks. It is extremely common and is independent of the dog’s breed.
This syndrome causes the same hormonal changes in the body of a non-pregnant female as in a pregnant female. In this article, we’ll explain how to recognize this abnormality and what to do if it occurs.
Definition
All healthy female dog breeds go through the diestrus phase (the phase of sexual dormancy between two consecutive cycles), which is the progesterone phase, and its effects last until the estrus phase. It is noteworthy, however, that false pregnancy syndrome in dogs develops only after the female’s serum progesterone level has dropped. Nonetheless, because the physiology of pregnant and nonpregnant females is almost the same in the diestrus stage, progesterone levels of the blood are not identified for pregnancy.
In general, false pregnancy syndrome is explained as the heightened reaction of the body to certain physiological alterations that come with this phase. Reduction of levels of progesterone helps in promoting the formation and secretion of prolactin. Among the nulliparous females, there are different degrees of sensitivity to hormonal changes, and, therefore, some of these animals may develop false pregnancy syndrome.
Symptoms
False pregnancy syndrome in dogs can present with mild symptoms such as a change in appetite, weight gain, or abdomen. Restlessness, decreased activity, attempts to “burrow”, refusal to eat, vomiting, swollen mammary glands, and the animal assuming the role of the mother of nonexistent puppies (toys and other inanimate objects can play the role of puppies) are all symptoms of this condition. The symptoms can sometimes be more pronounced, making it difficult to determine whether the pregnancy is true or false. For example, the female may start lactating or experience abdominal contractions similar to those seen during labor.
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Certain dogs exhibit so-called maternal aggression. When they feel threatened, whether real or perceived, they may exhibit a wide range of aggressive behaviors, including growling, snapping, and biting. Maternally aggressive dogs will usually guard their toys from a long distance, such as across the room or elsewhere in the house. They will growl warningly, but will not bite as long as they have the toy. If an opponent continues to approach, they will usually begin to eat their toy.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of the reproductive system in dogs and humans shares some similarities. Women use female fertility tests to assess their reproductive systems, while veterinarians use appropriate techniques to detect false pregnancies in dogs. False pregnancy is diagnosed when a non-pregnant female exhibits clinical symptoms consistent with the condition. In this case, an ultrasound or radiologic examination is conducted.
If these examinations reveal the absence of fetuses, no further tests (blood, urine, etc.) are required. It is usually impossible to tell whether the female was pregnant before the syndrome and had an abortion (or fetal resorption). The vast majority of false pregnancy syndrome in dogs develops spontaneously, rather than as a result of abortion or fetal resorption.
Treatment and Prevention
It is not recommended to treat the syndrome unless there are severe symptoms. In such cases, it resolves itself within 1 to 3 weeks. Small mental changes can be suppressed by redirecting the dog’s attention. For example, increased physical activity (more frequent, longer walks), and the removal of toys. If a dog’s false pregnancy is accompanied by aggression, the behavior must be corrected while taking the necessary precautions.
Some females experience false pregnancies after each heat. Ovariohysterectomy is the most effective solution in this situation. To prevent the syndrome from recurring, the female should not be sterilized during false pregnancy. To avoid provoking it, an ovariohysterectomy should be performed no earlier than four months after heat. Prior to surgery, the female should be checked for physical and behavioral indicators of a false pregnancy. If the condition is suspected, the uterus and ovaries should not be removed until it is treated.
Conclusion
False pregnancy in dogs is a common occurrence caused by hormonal changes. While it usually resolves on its own without intervention, severe cases may necessitate behavioral changes or even surgery. Monitoring your pet and consulting with a veterinarian can help ensure the best care.
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