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Why are my dog's nipples/vagina still swollen 2 months after heat?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female | unspayed | 55 lbs

My dog had her first heat cycle 2 months ago and her nipples and vagina are still enlarged. When will they shrink back down?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on November 20th, 2019

tAs long as she didn't get bred or is going through a false pregnancy, most dogs will shrink down within 2-3 weeks or so months from the heat cycle. It should be noted they will never shrink back to the size they were prior to here heat cycle. Since her teats and vulva are still swollen, I recommend to have her examined to find out if something is wrong or if she is pregnant. I do recommend to spay Oakley unless she is planned to be a breeding dog. There are many health and behavioral benefits to the procedure. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on July 17th, 2021

    It's normal for the mammary glands and nipples to be larger after a female dog has gone through her first heat cycle, similar to the changes that happen in humans after puberty. :) So this is likely perfectly normal. But if you're concerned, you could always opt to have your regular veterinarian take a look at her in person to make sure everything looks the way it should.

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