my dog was in heat in december, and she had gotten loose for a full 24 hours. She has recently become despondent and she does not have any swelling in her belly, she is starting to swell in her nipples and glands. Is she pregnant?
Ashley Harris says:
February 02nd, 2009 at 02:28 AM
It's hard to say right now. She possibly could be pregnant if she was mounted in December without you knowing since you say she was loose. Although swelling in the nipples and glands around this time can also be a sign of a false pregnancy which happens as well. A dog will normally hold pupps for 63 days. The only true way to tell would be to talk to your vet. Let them know the approximate estrus date and they can set a time table for you and at this time they should be able to snap a x-ray and see if they can view any puppies. They may also be able to do an ultrasound although it's hard to see a count if she is pregnant. Another thing with female dogs and after heat cycles is the chance for ovarian cysts or cancer. We have to be careful and watch for those as well when you don't have a female spayed They can be susceptible in gettin those which is why we recommend spaying at an early age. Mostly these will look like a swelling of the nipples and glands but can turn hard and lumpy not to be confused with mastitis which is an infection of the affected gland mostly after milk production. The glands may feel warm to the touch and tender to the dog if it turns into mastitis. I hope this helps. All else fails and your not sure I would suggest to talk to your vet. they can give you a huge insight about this.
Do you know the answer this question? Are you a pet professional? Become an advisor today!
Not a pet professional? Register here to comment on this question and help fellow pet owners.
Do you have a pet question you need answering? Ask our caring pet advisors here:
Televets does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. See additional information.
© Televets 2008
