You may have noticed something similar with your pregnant dog. She is listless, not eating, and her stomach feels different. You suspect the worst but don’t want to assume that the dog is dead. Unfortunately, there are symptoms during pregnancy that can help us decide what to do next after knowing the signs of a dead dog in the womb. This article will go over some of the signs that puppies have died in utero so you know what to look out for. Losing puppies is heartbreaking, especially for owners, but being informed gives you the strength to get your dog help during this critical situation.
Recognizing the Signs of Dead Puppies in the Womb
When a puppy dies in the womb, the mother dog may show symptoms that indicate the puppies are in distress or have passed away. As the owner, it’s critical to recognize these signs early on so you can get your dog proper veterinary care right away.
Lack of fetal movement
If the puppies are no longer moving around in the womb, this could indicate that something is wrong. Healthy puppies will actively move around, kick, and squirm in the womb, especially in the final weeks of pregnancy. Pay close attention to your dog’s belly to feel for puppy movement. If the belly seems still for an extended period, contact your vet.
Vaginal discharge
An abnormal amount of vaginal discharge could signal that the puppies have died in the womb. Look for discharge that’s green, brown, or contains blood. This type of discharge is not normal and requires emergency vet care. The dead puppies need to be removed to avoid infection and other complications.
Loss of appetite
If your dog suddenly stops eating or seems uninterested in food, this may indicate a problem with the pregnancy. While a decreased appetite is normal in the final week of pregnancy, a complete loss of appetite can be a sign that the puppies are in distress or have passed away. It’s best to have your vet examine your dog right away.
Severe depression
Some mood changes are normal during pregnancy and after birth, but if your dog seems extremely depressed, lethargic or is crying frequently, the puppies may have died in the womb or there could be another issue with the pregnancy that requires vet care.
Fever
A high fever in a pregnant dog can endanger the puppies. See your vet right away if your dog’s temperature rises above 103 degrees Fahrenheit, as this can indicate an infection in the womb, or that the puppies have died.
Early diagnosis and care are critical in these situations. See your vet as soon as possible if you notice any symptoms that could indicate dead or distressed puppies. They can perform ultrasounds and blood tests to determine if the puppies are still alive and healthy, or if problems exist so prompt treatment can be started.
What Happens If Puppies Are Dead in the Womb?
If puppies die in the womb, the mother dog may experience health issues as a result. As sad as it is, puppies can die before birth for various reasons. If you notice your dog showing symptoms of possible dead puppies in the womb, take her to the vet right away.
Infection Risk
The dead tissue from deceased puppies poses an infection risk to the mother dog. Bacteria thrive on dead tissue, and an infection in the womb can make the dog extremely ill. The vet will likely perform an emergency C-section or induce labor to remove the puppies and placentas. They will then put the dog on a course of antibiotics to prevent or treat any infections.
Toxemia
If puppies die in the womb during the later stages of pregnancy, the mother dog can develop a life-threatening condition called toxemia. The dead puppies are release toxins into the mother’s bloodstream, which can cause their severe illness, organ damage, and even death if left untreated. A dog with toxemia will show symptoms like loss of appetite, lethargy, fever, and vomiting. Quick treatment with fluids, medication, and removal of the dead puppies is required.
Psychological Distress
Some mother dogs may experience psychological distress from dead puppies in the womb. The dog’s natural mothering instincts are disrupted, which can cause anxiety, restlessness, whining, and other behavioral changes. The vet may prescribe medication to help keep the dog calm until the dead puppies are removed. Giving the dog extra love, affection, and comfort during this time will help her emotionally recover.
While dead puppies in the womb are tragic, the good news is that with prompt veterinary care, the mother dog can make a full physical and emotional recovery. Close observation of your pregnant dog, especially in the later stages of pregnancy, is the best way to detect problems early and get her the help she needs.
