What happens to the excess milk in female dogs?

Female dogs (bitches) have mammary glands that produce milk when they are nursing puppies. If a bitch has excess milk after her puppies are weaned, her body will naturally reabsorb the milk over time. This process can take several weeks. During this time, the bitch may experience some discomfort and swelling in her mammary glands. If the discomfort is severe, a veterinarian may recommend treatment to reduce the milk production and relieve the symptoms.