1. Dystocia: The presence of a retained puppy can obstruct the birth canal and prevent the delivery of the remaining puppies. This condition is known as dystocia and can be life-threatening for the mother and the remaining puppies.
2. Infection: A retained puppy can start to decompose inside the mother's uterus, leading to a serious infection known as metritis. This infection can spread throughout the mother's body and cause systemic illness, including fever, lethargy, and organ failure.
3. Stillbirth: If the puppy has been retained for an extended period, it may die inside the mother's uterus and become a stillborn puppy.
4. Trauma: The presence of a retained puppy can cause trauma to the mother's uterus and birth canal, leading to complications and potential long-term health problems.
It's crucial for the mother dog to receive prompt veterinary attention if there are any signs of a retained puppy. The veterinarian will assess the situation and take appropriate measures to remove the retained puppy and ensure the well-being of the mother and her puppies.