Can a Dog Conceive Without a Heat Cycle?

Your pup can't get pregnant if she didn't have her period, a term that's better known in dogs as a heat cycle. Even if you miss her heat cycle and she appears pregnant, she may not actually be.

Evidence of Heat

In most cases, you'll notice a bloody discharge soon after your pup's heat cycle begins. While some dogs have lots of discharge, other canines bleed only a tiny bit. The VCA Animal Hospitals website notes that you might not notice the discharge in some dogs, particularly those with dark fur. That can lead you to believe that your little girl never went through her heat cycle when she actually did. However, you should notice increased urination and possibly marking behavior while she's in heat.

False Pregnancy

Even if you missed your pooch's heat cycle, she would still need to be around an intact male dog to become pregnant. If she was not but still shows signs of pregnancy -- such as nesting, restlessness, nausea and enlarged mammary glands -- she might have a condition known as false pregnancy. Only your vet can make that diagnosis, so make an appointment with him if she's displaying pregnancy symptoms.

By Chris Miksen

References
VCA Animal Hospitals: Estrus Cycles in Dogs
PetMD: False Pregnancy in Female Dogs

About the Author
Located in Pittsburgh, Chris Miksen has been writing instructional articles on a wide range of topics for online publications since 2007. He currently owns and operates a vending business. Miksen has written a variety of technical and business articles throughout his writing career. He studied journalism at the Community College of Allegheny County.

Always check with your veterinarian before changing your pet’s diet, medication, or physical activity routines. This information is not a substitute for a vet’s opinion.