Phantom pregnancy also called ‘pseudocyesis’ or false or pseudo-pregnancy is a condition in which a female dog manifests signs of pregnancy, although she is not actually pregnant. The condition can affect any breed or age of female dogs.
The symptoms of phantom pregnancy in dogs include physiological and behavioral changes, such as enlargement and development of the mammary glands, enlarged belly, lactation, appetite loss, lethargy, nesting, restlessness, and being more protective of small objects. The symptoms usually occur about 6-8 weeks after the female dog’s heat season and resolve on their own within 2-3 weeks. Dogs that experience false pregnancy tend to have a recurrence after each heat season.
The behavior is thought to be associated with the dog’s pack behavior. In a pack, all the female dogs help rear puppies even when they are not their offspring. The behavior is fueled by hormones, specifically progesterone which is also known as the pregnancy hormone.
If you have concerns about your pet’s false pregnancy, make an appointment with your best animal hospital Middletown, DE.
Helalth Care 