Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog acts pregnant after heat. Is she in pain? How to calm her?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Boxer | Female | unspayed | 9 years old | 80 lbs

My dog has not been fixed but after she goes in heat, about the 61 day cycle she acts like she is going to have puppies. She finds all of her toys, they are her babies and whines constantly for about 2 weeks. My first question is she in pain,like labor? and second is there any thing besides benadryl I can give her to calm her down? She is naturally very anxiety dog. She is a Boxer which is strange to me. I have had them all my life and this little girl is just different..Please advise,

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 11th, 2020

Thanks for visiting Petcoach. Based on your description of what she is doing, whining and finding toys. This sounds like she may be having false pregnancy symptoms. This isn't painful nor is it a true medical concern for her. However, I can understand it being hard to watch her act in this manner. If you want something to calm her down you can try either Zylkene supplement available online or ask for anti-anxiety medications that can be prescribed by your veterinarian. I would also highly consider having Briggles spayed soon to help prevent any chances of a spontaneously infected uterus (pyometra) which can make pets very ill and require emergency surgery due to it being a life threatening event. This can happen at any time in pets that are not spayed. Here is more information on pyometra in pets --> https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951481 I do hope that Briggles does well moving forward. Best of luck and take care.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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
New Pet
Why is my new pet biting? Is she stressed or scared in her new home?
New pet biting? A Licensed Vet Tech shares expert advice on how to gently acclimate your new companion to their home, reduce stress, and build trust. Get guidance for a happy pet.
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
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu lost teeth after an accident. How can I feed him soft foods?
Your degu had an accident, lost teeth, and can't eat hard food. A Petco Vet Tech offers crucial advice on immediate vet care and how to feed your injured degu.
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
image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Book Now

Sponsored