Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Already a member? Sign in
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

My pit bull's stomach is bloated, but she's not pregnant. What's wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pit Bull Terrier | Female | 100 lbs

I rescued a pit bull 2 months ago. I assumed she was pregnant because of her bloated stomach. But her puppies should have come out by now. Im beginning to think she isnt pregnant at all. I took this picture on march 9th. I thought she was at least four weeks into her pregnancy.

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

Veterinarian

Published on April 30th, 2017

Homegirl definitely has fairly prominent abdominal distension! Dogs' gestation typically lasts 62-65 days, so I suppose it is still possible that she may be nearing the end of a pregnancy. However, if she has not had any changes to her mammary glands (I did not see any noticeable change in the photo from March), it is unlikely that she is approaching the end of a pregnancy. Abdominal distension this prominent in the absence of pregnancy could be due to fluid (a sign of liver failure, right sided heart failure, infection, etc.) or a benign or malignant mass, all of which can be quite severe. At this point, Homegirl should be examined by a vet urgently to evaluate her overall health and may need to take x-rays or perform an ultrasound of her abdomen to get to the bottom of this issue. I hope that all goes well!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 30th, 2017

    The typical gestation length of a dog is 58-68 days, so it could still be possible she is pregnant if it's been shorter than 68 days. I'm not sure if she has been getting bigger over the time you've had her, but she could also be experiencing a false pregnancy. With a false pregnancy, dogs show all the symptoms of being pregnant but will not have puppies. I would have Homegirl seen by a vet. The vet can diagnose if she is pregnant or not. If she isn't pregnant, I would recommend having her spayed.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?
Adopted a pet not eating hay? Dr. Stafford, a certified vet, offers expert guidance on encouraging hay consumption, including adjusting pellets and trying fresh types.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Is my female rat pregnant? What are the visual signs of rat pregnancy?
Frustrated trying to tell if your rat is pregnant from a photo? A Petco vet explains why a physical exam or sonogram is crucial for an accurate diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
I think my pet is pregnant. How can a vet confirm it for sure?
Is Candy pregnant? A professional vet explains how to confirm pregnancy, as photos alone aren't enough. Discover key signs and what to look for in your pet.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My rat is losing weight and has breathing issues. What should I do?
Dambo's weight loss, rough breathing, and mucus worry you? A Petco veterinarian addresses these concerning symptoms and recommends urgent professional care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My mouse has a growing lump. What can I do if I can't afford a vet?
Concerned about your mouse's growing lump and vet costs? A trusted Petco veterinarian provides guidance on managing her comfort during this difficult time.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored