Pseudocyesis, false or hysterical pregnancy, are somewhat common in dogs and can occur after the dog's normal estrus cycle when it has not been bred. Hysterical pregnancy can have behavioral and physical symptoms. Dog owners should monitor the condition although treatment is rarely required, and the condition will pass with time.
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Behavioral Symptoms
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Dogs can show signs of nesting behavior during a hysterical pregnancy. This includes attempting to dig a nest that the dog may protect from other animals. They may also bring dog toys to the nest and curl around them much like a mother dog would pups.
Physical Symptoms
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Enlargement of the mammary tissue is the most common physical symptom of a hysterical pregnancy. In extreme cases the mammary may produce milk. Veterinarian intervention may be required to treat this condition.
Diagnosis
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The diagnosis of hysterical pregnancy is made by ruling out a true pregnancy in the presence of the symptoms of a pregnancy. Palpating the dog involves externally feeling for the presence of puppies in the uterus. The puppies are usually detectable to an experienced dog breeder about four weeks after conception. A more definitive test involves X-raying the dog. Fetus skeletons are detectible 45 days after conception with X-rays, according to the website vetinfo.com
Treatment
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Hysterical pregnancy symptoms often pass after a couple of weeks without treatment. According to the website petplace.com, some veterinarians suggest decreasing food to discourage milk production. Sedation is prescribed for dogs that are aggressively maternalistic during a hysterical pregnancy.
Care and Prevention
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Hysterical pregnancy only occurs in intact female dogs. Spaying the dog prevents any further episodes of hysterical pregnancies. During an episode of hysterical pregnancy the dog should be monitored and prevented from licking at its mammaries. An Elizabethan collar, a stiff collar that physically prevents the dog from reaching its belly, may be necessary.
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