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My puppy's nipples are swollen after heat, is she pregnant or ill?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pit Bull Terrier | Female | unspayed | 11 months and 12 days old | 53 lbs

My puppy was in heat about 2 months ago. She spotted some and her vagina was swollen but about a month ago it went back to normal. About 2-3 weeks ago I noticed her nipples sticking more out and today it’s pufft around her nipples. She is my only dog. I have kept her either inside or my back yard that’s fenced in so I’m sure she has had no contact with other dogs. My neighbors have dogs but they’re fixed. So I’m confused why she’s getting boobs now.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ann Dion, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 3rd, 2017

Hello and welcome to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. It is possible that Harley could be going through something called 'pseudo-pregnancy'. Dogs can develop mammary glands, produce milk, and will sometimes even start to nest and collect small stuffed animals to nurse. This is normal and will subside in a few weeks. However, it is recommended to get her spayed before her next heat so she doesn't have to go through that stress again. The other possible cause is something called a pyometra. This is an infected uterus and is life-threatening. If you notice any discharge from her vulva, if she is weak, not eating, drinking more, or acting abnormally at all, I would have her seen by your vet right away. Best of luck with Harley.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on December 17th, 2017

    Yes, it is very possible that she may be pregnant. However, occasionally dogs will experience a “false pregnancy “. Dogs will even lactate during this false pregnancy. If you do not want her to have puppies then I would recommend scheduling her for a spay as soon as possible. Otherwise a pregnancy is about 65 days. I would encourage you to have her evaluated by your veterinarian to discuss pregnancy and perinatal care if she is pregnant. Thank you for using Pet Coach.

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    Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 30th, 2018

    I would try and get Stella to the vet sooner if you can. They can be off form post heat but she could also be developing a phantom pregnancy. More seriously she could develop a pyometra infection of the womb, However, she sounds very bright and healthy for this to be the case.

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