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My unspayed dog was outside. Is she pregnant? What are the symptoms?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Bulldog | Female | unspayed | 125 lbs

Hello, I'm afraid of my dog being mated. We leave her outside for a few hours every day because she prefers outside to play. Shes the only dog and frequently tries to jump the fence. [The neighborhood kids antagonize her by banging on the fence when shes there on purpose.] There are other Male dogs as well. When I brought her in today, her face was incredibly wet. Her legs were dirty and she licked her back legs and front paws. She drunk water but not as much as she usual. Has she been mated?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on April 3rd, 2018

If she is in heat and has been potentially left alone with intact male dogs, there is always a chance she may be pregnant. The only way to prevent her from becoming pregnant 100% is to have her spayed, especially if you do not wish to have puppies. It appears that she has grass stains on her, which may have been from her getting out, or just playing in your yard. If she is acting ill, it is best to seek veterinary care to try and determine the cause and treat any injuries she may have gotten. If you suspect she may already be pregnant, taking her to the vet to confirm it is also best.

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    Answered By Silvia De Cecco, DVM, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 3rd, 2018

    Unfortunately is not possible to know it by looking at the picture. If she is in the right moment of her cycle and there are entire male dogs with her, it is possible. If you would like to know if Bella is pregnant your vet could perform an abdominal ultrasound in a month time. If, otherwise, you decide to terminate the pregnancy, please discuss it further with your local vet. Good luck!

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