Unwanted pregnancy in dogs: Options and advice

If you own a female dog of breeding age that you do not intend to breed from, there really is no excuse for not having her neutered. Dogs will breed prolifically if unspayed, and female dogs in heat need close supervision to prevent unwanted pregnancies. Spaying your female dog not only removes the risk of accidental litters but also offers important health benefits, including reduced risk of pyometra and certain cancers.

Still, even responsible owners may find themselves facing an unwanted pregnancy. This can happen if a dog reaches sexual maturity earlier than expected, if her mating is unplanned or unintended, or if you acquire a female dog you believe to be spayed but she is not. When such situations arise, you have several options to consider, each with benefits and risks to weigh.

1. Allowing your dog to have the puppies

The most straightforward option might seem to be allowing the pregnancy to go full term. However, before deciding, reflect on whether you can commit to the responsibility involved. This includes your ability to care for the dam through pregnancy and whelping and to find good, permanent homes for all puppies. Unwanted litters contribute to the overpopulation problem, with rescue centres overwhelmed by dogs needing rehoming. If the sire is unknown or a different breed, pay special attention to potential health risks during delivery, such as difficulties arising from size mismatch, for example if one parent is a large or brachycephalic breed like the English Bulldog or Staffordshire Bull Terrier.

2. Spaying during pregnancy

If you do not intend to breed your dog, spaying during early pregnancy is a definitive option. This procedure involves surgical removal of the ovaries and uterus, thus terminating the pregnancy by removing the developing foetuses. However, spaying pregnant dogs carries increased surgical risks due to enlarged blood vessels in reproductive organs, resulting in a longer, more complex operation with increased potential for bleeding. Recovery times may be longer, and veterinary expertise is critical. The surgical scar might be larger than a standard spay but will be concealed by regrowing fur.

3. Mis-mating injection (Alizin)

Alizin is an antiprogestagenic injection licensed in the UK for terminating early pregnancy in bitches. It is most effective if administered within 22 days of conception, with near 100% success at this stage. Administering it later reduces success rates considerably. Veterinary assessment including ultrasound is often necessary to confirm pregnancy stage and check for a successful outcome afterward. This method offers a less invasive alternative to surgery but should always be given under veterinary supervision.

4. Veterinary abortion procedures

Veterinary abortion is a rarely used but sometimes medically necessary option when pregnancy termination is required, and the owner wishes to keep the dog intact for future breeding. This can be performed surgically or medically using abortifacient drugs. Such procedures are complex, stressful, and may require hospitalisation for monitoring. They are generally reserved for advanced pregnancies where other methods are unsuitable. The decision should involve thorough veterinary consultation to ensure welfare and minimise risk.

5. Responsible prevention: Spaying your dog

The best way to avoid the complexities and emotional challenges of an unwanted pregnancy is to have your female dog spayed early, before she reaches sexual maturity or before any accidental mating occurs. Spaying prevents heat cycles altogether and is recognised as a responsible owner choice that benefits the dog's long-term health and prevents unwanted litters. For those unsure about when to spay, a conversation with your local vet can provide personalised advice based on breed, age, and health.

Frequently Asked Question: How long is a dog pregnant?

Quick answer: The average gestation period for dogs is around 63 days (about 9 weeks) from conception, though this can vary by a few days depending on the individual and breed.

Understanding your dog’s pregnancy length and signs can help you make informed decisions if faced with an unwanted pregnancy. Pregnancy is typically confirmed around 3-4 weeks after mating, with behavioural and physical signs becoming more noticeable as the weeks progress.

Conclusion

Unwanted pregnancy in dogs can be a stressful and challenging situation, laden with ethical, health, and practical considerations. While there are several options ranging from allowing the pregnancy to go full term to surgical and medical termination, the safest and most responsible approach is prevention through spaying. Whatever choice you face, your veterinarian is your indispensable partner in making decisions that prioritise the welfare and health of your dog. Responsible ownership and planning can help you avoid such dilemmas and contribute to easing the broader issue of canine overpopulation.