False Pregnancy in Dogs

False pregnancy occurs several weeks after estrus in unrelated or unfertile females. In case of a false pregnancy,as if she was pregnant; In addition to changes in behavior, there are physical symptoms of pregnancy. This condition can be observed in different species of animals, but false pregnancy in dogs is most common and pronounced.

False pregnancy in dogs is not a disease, not a pathology and not an anomaly. This condition is associated with hormonal imbalance after estrus. Regardless of whether the female was fertilizedor not, after the estrus in the body of the dog, the same hormones begin to be produced, that in pregnancy: the level of the hormone of progesterone decreases, and the level of prolactin, on the contrary, increases sharply. Hormonal changes cause pregnancy symptoms.

False pregnancy in dogs is accompanied by swelling of the mammary glands, in some cases lactation even begins. There may be changes in appetite: the dog begins to eat and drink much more, or vice versa - to refuse food. Behavior also changes: the dog begins to equip the nest of rags, paper, etc., usually in a secluded place. The animal shows maternal activity in relation to various subjects (footwear, toys, etc.). A dog can become restless, nervous, fussy, move little and reluctant to play. Sometimes a dog actively takes care of the owner, but behaves aggressively towards other dogs (in particular - bitches).

How to treat a false pregnancy and whether it is worth itdo at all? In principle, a false pregnancy in dogs after some time passes by itself without consequences - the hormonal balance returns to normal. But the owner should take care to reduce the dog's milk production. To do this, you need to limit the animal intake of food and water and refuse at this time from dry food.

Some bitches during a period of false pregnancystimulate lactation on their own, licking their belly or biting the mammary glands. You can not let a dog do it. Some owners bandage the dog's belly with a piece of cloth or bandage so that she does not have access to the nipples. But a dense bandage on the contrary can stimulate the release of milk, so A more reliable and safe way is to put a special collar on the dog, which is usually used after operations, so that the animal does not lick the seams.

In the period of false pregnancy costs more walking with a dog. First, physical activity improves the condition of the dog and contributes to the cessation of lactation. Secondly, during long walks the dog is not up to imaginary puppies.

In severe cases of false pregnancy, a veterinarianmay prescribe hormonal therapy to suppress symptoms. But hormone treatment is an extreme measure that can not be resorted to without the permission of a veterinarian. The use of hormonal drugs should be done under the strict supervision of a veterinarian after an accurate confirmation of the diagnosis - If the pregnancy is not false, but real, hormones can lead to miscarriage.

Can sterilization help cope with the symptoms of a false pregnancy? Perform an operation during a false pregnancy indogs are not recommended - so you can not get rid of the symptoms, on the contrary, you can only aggravate the condition. But it is worth considering about the sterilization of a dog after a false pregnancy to prevent the development of this condition - especially if a false pregnancy in a dog is observed often, it is difficult, and you do not plan to start puppies.

False pregnancy in dogs is an absolutely normal phenomenon, which sooner or later any "dogman" can face. It is important to know how to take care of a dog during this period to make it as easy as possible.