Ask Dr Claire

My bitch is 17 months, never been mated and has milk in her tits. 2 have enlarged heaps over 3 days and are hard, does she have mastitis? Should I take her to the vet on Monday?

When a dog is entire (not desexed), they have not been mated, and have milk in their teats it can indicate she is having a pseudopregnancy, or false pregnancy.

Unfortunately, some bitches who have a pseudopregnancy will actually develop mastitis.

As two of her teats are firm and engorged I would recommend seeing your local veterinarian as soon as possible for a hands-on examination, in case treatment is required.

It’s also worth noting that when a lady has a pseudopregnancy, they are likely to get it again.

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Chat soon,

Dr Claire