I came across something really unusual a few weeks ago. I was dog sitting a 10 month old doberman bitch that was due to be spayed the week before. However she had a 'phantom pregnancy' (pseudopregnancy). Her hormone levels were out of balance so she was unable to have the operation and she was producing milk!
According to further research on this topic on the internet, it is not uncommon as around 60% of bitches experience them to some extent in their lifetime, however I was rather surprised by this as I had not heard of this before, but it is quite uncommon in a dog as young as 10 months.
Phantom pregnancy is thought to be a natural act that dates back to when dogs were not domesticated and all the bitches in a pack would go into season at the same time but although only the alpha bitch would mate the other bitches would have enough milk to feed the alpha female's puppies.
It typically occurs around 6-12 weeks after the dog's last heat cycle
Symptoms:
Physical Changes
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One of the most obvious changes brought on by a false pregnancy will be the presence of milk. This is a very common symptom. A dog will develop enlarged mammary glands as the time gets closer to when her phantom litter is due. She may actually gain weight and develop a rounded, full look as well, simulating how she would look if she actually were pregnant.
Nesting Behaviour
A dog may nest and act as though she already has puppies.
Mothering
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A dog may start to collect seemingly random items from around the house or yard and bring them to her nest or keep them close to her. It is not uncommon for her to want to take care of her toys, shoes, children's soft toys, or other odds and ends she finds around the house.
Other Signs
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A dog may seem to be mildly ill when she is having a false pregnancy. In addition to gaining weight and having swollen mammary glands, she may seem more tired than usual, and she may have a slight vaginal discharge.
Concerns
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Many of the signs of a false pregnancy can also be signs of other problems, such as a vaginal or uterine infection. If she seems to get depressed or lethargic, stops eating, has a fever or has a foul-smelling or excessive vaginal discharge, a vet should be consulted.
The dog I was dog sitting
Thanks to multiple websites for information on the symptoms.
