Canine Pseudopregnancy Study Guide
Overview and Clinical Importance
Pseudopregnancy (also known as pseudocyesis, false pregnancy, or phantom pregnancy) is a physiological syndrome characterized by physical and behavioral signs similar to those observed during a normal pregnancy in non-pregnant intact bitches. This condition represents a unique aspect of canine reproductive physiology that distinguishes dogs from most other domestic species.
Physiologically, all non-pregnant bitches are "pseudopregnant" at the end of diestrus because the corpus luteum remains functional for approximately the same duration whether or not conception occurs (approximately 60-65 days). However, the clinical manifestation and severity of signs varies tremendously among individual dogs, with some showing no overt signs while others develop conspicuous physical and behavioral changes.
Pathophysiology
The Unique Canine Estrous Cycle
The canine estrous cycle is unique among domestic species and is fundamental to understanding pseudopregnancy. Dogs are monoestrous with a non-seasonal cycle averaging 6-7 months (range: 5-12 months). The cycle consists of four phases:
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