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Why is my dog's vulva still swollen after heat, and nipples enlarged?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My dog's vagina never shrunk down after she was in heat. Her bottom two nipples are also enlarged and feel swollen when pushed on. She is 100% not pregnant.

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3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Laura E. McRae

Veterinary Technician

Published on February 9th, 2015

It is not unusual for the vulva to remain swollen for a period of time after the "heat" cycle is over. In dogs, there are [4 stages of estrus](https://www.petcoach.co/article/anatomy-and-function-of-the-reproductive-system-in-dogs). The combination of proestrus and estrus, which is often referred to as "heat" by breeders, lasts approximately 21 days. "Heat" is followed by diestrus and anestrus. During proestrus, the vulva swells and has a bloody discharge. During estrus, the vulva softens and becomes pliable in preparation for mating. It can take several weeks following estrus for the vulva to shrink back down in size, but it will never go back to the size it was before the first heat cycle. The same is true of the mammary glands, which enlarge slightly in preparation for [pregnancy](https://www.petcoach.co/dog/condition/pregnancy/).

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 16th, 2017

    When a dog is in heat, their nipples can swell as well. This will resolve itself in the next week or so once her heat is over. I would keep an eye on Jane for now, and if her nipples do not go down over the next week, I would have her seen by a vet. .

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    Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 17th, 2017

    It is possible she is still swollen because the hormones haven’t gotten completely out of her system. She may also be pregnant if she was ever left unattended outside during her heat cycle or she could be going through a false pregnancy. If her nipples continue to stay swollen and she gains weight she is likely pregnant. You can have your vet do some X-rays after 45 days of gestation to prove whether or not she is pregnant. An ultrasound can be done as early as 30 days if your vet has one. I hope this helps!

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