Your dog is showing symptoms of false pregnancy. It is not dangerous but completely natural for bitches. All bitches develop the hormone changes of a false pregnancy after their season, but some show more signs of this than others. The signs come about 1-2 months after the oestrus (season) and can last for several weeks, sometimes for several months. There are both behaviour changes and a tendency to produce milk at the teats.

Why does the dog become falsely pregnant?

The reason is that bitches have the same hormone production whether they become pregnant or not. The body prepares for puppies and to be able to give birth. When dogs lived in packs only the lead male and female would reproduce, if something happened to the bitch or she went out hunting, other bitches in the pack could feed the puppies, if they were producing milk through false pregnancy. 

Groups of female dogs living together often come in season at the same time so some will have a false pregnancy at the same time as one is having pups.

What symptoms are common?

- The Mammary glands becomes swollen and many bitches also produce milk.

- Many bitches become a little depressed, do not want to go for a walk, are unfocused on training, some become clingy or sulky,  and some can even become aggressive.

- Many bitches start digging in their bed or in furniture or carpets and rugs to prepare a nest for the "puppy".

- Some bitches treat their toys or stuffed animals like their puppies, carrying them around and bringing them to their bed.

- Appetite can be affected, some eat less or stop eating and others become very hungry.

- Sometimes increased thirst is seen and the bitch urinates more often (can also be a sign of illness).

Treatment?

The symptoms will go away by themselves and if the bitch or owner is not too bothered, nothing is usually done about the false pregnancy. A little less food and more exercise can help, but don't force the dog if it doesn't want to exercise. Also remember not to demand as much from her during this period. If you bitch is distressed by the effects of a false pregnancy your vet may prescribe medication to prevent the signs.

The timing of false pregnancy can be the same as for a womb infection (pyometra) and some of the symptoms are the same. A pyometra or womb infection is extremely serious so if you are the least bit unsure whether the bitch is really unwell or having a false pregnancy, make an appointment for a physical examination at you local veterinary clinic.