Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Why are my pregnant dog's back legs swollen before giving birth?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chinese Shar-Pei | Female | unspayed | 40 lbs

Is it normal for a pregnant dog to have swelling in there back legs close to time for birth?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on August 7th, 2017

You can find significant fluid retention in dogs near birthing time. It is similar to the swelling you see in human's feet. If she seems to be unwell or off form I would consider a vet visit as a precaution to check her hear and blood pressure. Most likely it is just a bit of retention due to the pressure on her lymphatic system.

Vote icon

6Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By David Darvishian

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Hi and thanks for using PetCoach! Thanks for inquiring about Biscuit. Normally this isn't something expected during pregnancy but anything is possible. I would be starting to think about another cause. Those include Sharpei Fever which I am including a web link for, circulatory problems or lymphatic drainage problem in the rear limbs. Here is the link for Familial Sharpei Fever or FSF. http://www.cspca.com/health/fsf.asp I would advise that you have your veterinarian take a look at Biscuit as soon as possible to determine what course of action to take since she is pregnant. Good luck.

    Vote icon

    2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
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
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 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
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my pet's swollen lump with green patches not getting better?
Is your pet's swollen, green-patched infection still bothering them after treatment? A certified veterinarian discusses proper diagnosis methods like biopsy and FNA.
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