Phantom Pregnancy

What is a Phantom Pregnancy?

A phantom pregnancy, also known as false pregnancy or pseudopregnancy, occurs 6–8 weeks after a season, causing a dog to behave and feel pregnant despite not being pregnant.

🐾 Why does it happen?After a season, female dogs naturally produce pregnancy hormones—regardless of whether they were bred or not—which can lead some dogs to experience false pregnancy symptoms.

Signs & Symptoms

Every dog is different, but common signs include:

🔹 Nesting behaviours – Collecting toys, blankets, or clothes

🔹 Mothering objects – Caring for a soft toy or other item as if it were a puppy

🔹 Changes in mood – Nervousness, aggression, neediness, or depression

Additional symptoms:

⚠️ Low energy & reduced appetite

⚠️ Swollen mammary glands & milk production (clear or brown liquid)

⚠️ Swollen tummy (in extreme cases)

⚠️ Mastitis (mammary gland infection in severe cases)

How Long Does It Last?

Most phantom pregnancies are mild and resolve on their own within a few weeks. However, some cases require medical intervention, so it’s best to consult your vet if symptoms persist.

🔴 If a dog experiences one phantom pregnancy, she will likely have them after each season unless she is spayed.

Monitoring & Preventing Complications

📌 Watch for Serious Issues – Phantom pregnancies can lead to mastitis (mammary gland infection) and even mammary cancers, so close monitoring is essential.

📌 Natural Support – Some supplements may help reduce the likelihood of phantom pregnancies:

🌱 Dorwest Herbs Raspberry Leaf & Evening Primrose Oil – Given at the start of a season to support hormonal balance.

🌱 Urtica 3C (homoeopathic remedy) – Used to suppress milk production.

🌱 Pulsatilla 15C (from Dorwest) – May help manage symptoms.

Helpful Management Strategies

✅ Exercise & Mental Stimulation – Keeping your dog engaged helps distract her from phantom pregnancy behaviours.

✅ Prevent Overstimulation of Mammary Glands – Avoid excessive licking around nipples, as this encourages milk production and can lead to mastitis.

🦺 Use a protective body suit or buster collar to prevent licking if needed.

✅ Remove Mothered Objects – If your dog treats toys as puppies, consider removing them gently to prevent stress or aggression.

🎾 Use distraction techniques – If she starts nesting or mothering again, encourage play with toys that are less likely to be mothered, such as a filled Kong.

🚫 Never punish your dog for mothering her toys – This behavior is instinctual, and she won’t understand why she’s being disciplined.

Final Thoughts

Phantom pregnancy is common and natural, but close observation and proper management can help ensure your dog's comfort and prevent complications. If symptoms worsen or persist, seeking veterinary advice is always the safest option.

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