Home » Diseases » In dogs » Abortion (Miscarriage)

Abortion (Miscarriage) in Dogs

Synonyms: Miscarriage, stillbirth, abortion

Occurrence: common
Location of disease: Abdomen/pelvis

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 23.02.2026

When to visit the vet?

Urgent see a veterinarian within 24 hours

If the condition worsens / symptoms persist, consult a veterinarian.

Definition

An abortionabortion refers to the loss of a pregnancy before the viability of the fetus, i.e. before it could survive outside the womb. This can be caused naturally by various factors or be medically induced. (miscarriage) in a female dog is the loss of puppies before they reach viability. The pregnancy ends prematurely. A premature end to pregnancy can occur at any time during gestation. If the pregnancy ends in the early stage, fetal resorption usually occurs. If the pregnancy ends after day 30 of gestation, it is referred to as an abortionabortion refers to the loss of a pregnancy before the viability of the fetus, i.e. before it could survive outside the womb. This can be caused naturally by various factors or be medically induced.. The puppies are stillborn or, in late pregnancy, may be born partially alive but die shortly after birth. Overall, abortionabortion refers to the loss of a pregnancy before the viability of the fetus, i.e. before it could survive outside the womb. This can be caused naturally by various factors or be medically induced. in female dogs is relatively rare.

The most important facts at a glance

A miscarriage in a female dog can have many causes, including infections (e.g., e.g., Brucella canis), hormonal imbalances (progesterone deficiencyDeficiency means a lack or absence of a necessary substance required for normal bodily functions or health, such as vitamins, minerals, or hormones.), or anatomical/hereditary factors. More recent research focuses on improved diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. using PCR, close hormoneHormones are chemical messengers produced by endocrine glands and released into the bloodstream to affect specific cells or organs in the body. They regulate numerous bodily functions, including growth, metabolism, and reproduction. monitoring, and preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. (for example through hygiene measures and health checks of both parent animals before mating). If there are signs of an impending abortionabortion refers to the loss of a pregnancy before the viability of the fetus, i.e. before it could survive outside the womb. This can be caused naturally by various factors or be medically induced., prompt veterinary assessment is crucial. An online Symptom Checker such as petsvetcheck.de can provide initialInitial means beginning or at the start. In medicine, it can refer to the first symptoms of a disease or the first phase of a treatment process. indications, but it does not replace clinical diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients.. With timely, targeted therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions., the female dog can often remain successfully capable of reproduction.

Causes

Bacterial or viralViral refers to viruses and their effects on the organism. Viral infections in dogs and cats can range from harmless colds to severe, life-threatening diseases. infections
Hormonal imbalances
Genetic defects of the fetuses
ToxicToxic means "poisonous" and refers to substances that can have harmful effects on the body, including damage to organs, cells, or disruption of metabolic processes. exposureExposure refers to the Contact with or subjection to certain substances, environmental factors, or pathogens. In veterinary medicine, this can include Contact with toxins, allergens, or infectious agents that can cause health problems in dogs and cats.
Nutritional deficiencies

InfectiousInfectious describes the ability of a pathogen to be transmitted from one individual to another and trigger an infection. It also refers to diseases caused by such pathogens. causes

- BacteriaBacteria are microscopic, single-celled organisms that exist in almost every environment on Earth. Some types of bacteria are beneficial or even essential to life, while others can cause disease.:
  - Brucella canis (bacterial brucellosis) is one of the best-known causes of abortions. It is also a zoonosisA zoonosis is a disease or infection that can be naturally transmitted from animals to humans. Examples include rabies, Lyme disease, and avian influenza. (can be transmitted to humans).
  - Escherichia coli, Streptococcus species, Staphylococcus species, or other pathogens may also be involved.
- ViralViral refers to viruses and their effects on the organism. Viral infections in dogs and cats can range from harmless colds to severe, life-threatening diseases. pathogens:
  - CanineCanine refers to anything related to dogs. The term is used to describe characteristics, diseases, or specific aspects that specifically affect dogs. herpesvirus (CHV-1): Often responsible for neonatalNeonatal refers to the newborn period, the first few weeks after birth in dogs and cats. During this time, newborns are particularly susceptible to health problems and require special care. deaths in puppies, but can also lead to late-term abortions.
  - Other viruses such as parvovirus (although less common than in unvaccinated female dogs) may play a role.
- Protozoa & parasites:
  - More rarely, e.g. Neospora caninum or toxoplasmosis (more common in cats, but also possible in dogs in rare cases).

Hormonal and endocrine disorders

- Progesterone deficiencyDeficiency means a lack or absence of a necessary substance required for normal bodily functions or health, such as vitamins, minerals, or hormones.: Progesterone is essential for maintaining pregnancy.
- Thyroid dysfunctionDysfunction refers to an impaired or abnormal function of an organ or system in the body. This can be due to diseases, disorders, or damage and can affect the quality of life. (hypothyroidism) is discussed as a potential contributing cause.

Genetic and anatomical causes

- CongenitalCongenital means "present from birth" and refers to characteristics or conditions that are already present at birth. This can include genetic disorders, developmental anomalies, or infections transmitted by the mother. malformations of the uterusThe uterus, also known as the womb, is a female reproductive organ in which the fetus grows and develops during pregnancy. It consists of muscle tissue and is lined with a mucous membrane., e.g., deformities inside the uterusThe uterus, also known as the womb, is a female reproductive organ in which the fetus grows and develops during pregnancy. It consists of muscle tissue and is lined with a mucous membrane. (septa, diverticulumA diverticulum is a pouch-like protrusion of the wall of a hollow organ, such as the intestine. Diverticula can be congenital or acquired and vary in size. They can be asymptomatic or lead to complications such as inflammatory conditions.), can increase the risk of abortionabortion refers to the loss of a pregnancy before the viability of the fetus, i.e. before it could survive outside the womb. This can be caused naturally by various factors or be medically induced..
- Hereditary anomalies in the embryos or chromosomal defects in the parent animals.

Environmental and management factors

- StressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being., traumatic events (accident, fall), toxicToxic means "poisonous" and refers to substances that can have harmful effects on the body, including damage to organs, cells, or disruption of metabolic processes. substances (pesticidesPesticides are chemical or biological substances used to control pests, including insects, weeds, and fungi. In dogs and cats, exposure to certain pesticides can be harmful to health and lead to signs of poisoning., medications).
- Inadequate nutrition and deficiencies (e.g., calciumCalcium is a mineral that is essential for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth. It also plays a role in blood coagulation, nerve transmission, and muscle contraction., vitamins) can generally impair the stability of the pregnancy.

Immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. and autoimmune processes

- In rare cases, autoimmune diseasesAutoimmune diseases are conditions in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells or tissues as if they were foreign substances. Examples in dogs and cats include autoimmune hemolytic anemia and systemic lupus erythematosus. may play a role.

Symptoms

Very common symptoms:

Common symptoms:

Rare symptoms:

The clinical signs of an abortionabortion refers to the loss of a pregnancy before the viability of the fetus, i.e. before it could survive outside the womb. This can be caused naturally by various factors or be medically induced. vary depending on the stage of pregnancy and the cause:

In early abortions, symptoms may be minimal or completely absent, as the embryos are often resorbed. The female dog may show only brief vaginalVaginal refers to anything related to the vagina, the muscular tube that connects the external genitalia in female mammals to the uterus. discharge or Behavioral changes. In late abortions, the fetuses are expelled, accompanied by contractions and abdominalThe term “abdominal” refers to anything that concerns the belly or the abdomen. It is an adjectival expression used to describe the location, symptoms, or conditions that occur in the abdominal area. straining. VaginalVaginal refers to anything related to the vagina, the muscular tube that connects the external genitalia in female mammals to the uterus. discharge may be serous, bloody, or purulentPurulent refers to pus or the production of pus, which may indicate a bacterial infection. Purulent inflammatory conditions are often painful and may have significant swelling and redness., depending on the cause.

Systemic symptoms such as Fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, and dehydrationDehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in. This can lead to a number of problems, including headaches, Dizziness, and in extreme cases, renal failure or Cardiovascular collapse. may occur, especially with infectiousInfectious describes the ability of a pathogen to be transmitted from one individual to another and trigger an infection. It also refers to diseases caused by such pathogens. causes. In an incomplete abortionabortion refers to the loss of a pregnancy before the viability of the fetus, i.e. before it could survive outside the womb. This can be caused naturally by various factors or be medically induced., when parts of the placentaThe placenta is an organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy and provides the fetus with oxygen and nutrients via the umbilical cord. It also serves as a barrier to some infectious agents. or fetuses remain, metritis (uterine inflammation) can develop and may lead to septic shock.

Behavioral changes such as nesting behavior, Restlessness, or excessive Licking of the genital area may be observed. After an abortionabortion refers to the loss of a pregnancy before the viability of the fetus, i.e. before it could survive outside the womb. This can be caused naturally by various factors or be medically induced., the female dog may develop pseudolactation, in which the mammary glands swell and produce milk.

Diagnosis

Clinical examination and medical historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits.
UltrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. examination to check the status of the pregnancy
Blood tests to identify infections or hormonal disorders
- PCR tests (polymerase chain reaction) allow rapid and precise identification of infectiousInfectious describes the ability of a pathogen to be transmitted from one individual to another and trigger an infection. It also refers to diseases caused by such pathogens. agents such as Brucella canis or canineCanine refers to anything related to dogs. The term is used to describe characteristics, diseases, or specific aspects that specifically affect dogs. herpesvirus.
- Serological tests (e.g., antibodyAn antibody is a protein produced by the immune system to recognize and bind specific antigens. By binding to the antigen, antibodies can help destroy or neutralize it. detection) are still the standard for confirming infections.
Examination of the aborted material, if available, to determine the cause
High-resolution ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. examinations enable early detection of developmental disorders in the fetus and can provide indications of impending abortions (e.g., missing heartbeat, reduced amniotic fluid volume).

Therapy

Treatment of underlying infectiousInfectious describes the ability of a pathogen to be transmitted from one individual to another and trigger an infection. It also refers to diseases caused by such pathogens. causes with antibiotics or antiviral medications
Hormonal therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. for identified imbalances
SupportiveSupportive refers to supportive treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life without directly treating the underlying cause of the disease. care for the female dog, including fluid therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. and nutritional support
Detoxification measures in cases of toxicToxic means "poisonous" and refers to substances that can have harmful effects on the body, including damage to organs, cells, or disruption of metabolic processes. exposure

HormoneHormones are chemical messengers produced by endocrine glands and released into the bloodstream to affect specific cells or organs in the body. They regulate numerous bodily functions, including growth, metabolism, and reproduction. management

Current studies are evaluating approaches to supplement progesterone externally in cases of progesterone deficiencyDeficiency means a lack or absence of a necessary substance required for normal bodily functions or health, such as vitamins, minerals, or hormones.. However, the risk of side effects (e.g., cholestasis, uterine inflammation) must be weighed.
Close monitoring of progesterone levels can detect impending abortions early.

Breeding hygiene and breeding management

Strict breeding selectionSelection refers to the process of natural or artificial selection of specific individuals for reproduction, based on desired genetic traits. In breeding, this is applied to promote specific characteristics in dogs and cats. and testing for genetic diseases in relevant breeds.
The trend towards closer cooperation between laboratories, veterinarians and breeders leads to early detection of risk factors.

Multimodal treatment

If an abortionabortion refers to the loss of a pregnancy before the viability of the fetus, i.e. before it could survive outside the womb. This can be caused naturally by various factors or be medically induced. is imminent, veterinarians use medications (antibiotics, progesterone preparations, immunomodulatorsImmunomodulators are substances that affect the immune system by increasing or decreasing its activity. They are used in dogs and cats to treat autoimmune diseases, allergies, or as cancer therapy.) depending on the cause.
There are new studies on supporting pregnancy through a combination of micronutrients (e.g. antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids) – however, the effectiveness is sometimes still the subject of research.

PreventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. strategies

VaccinationVaccination is the process of administering a vaccine to develop immunity against a specific infectious disease. It is one of the most effective methods of prevention of infectious diseases. against canineCanine refers to anything related to dogs. The term is used to describe characteristics, diseases, or specific aspects that specifically affect dogs. herpesvirus is discussed in some breeding contexts, although no nationwide standard vaccinationVaccination is the process of administering a vaccine to develop immunity against a specific infectious disease. It is one of the most effective methods of prevention of infectious diseases. has yet been established in Germany.
Strict hygiene and control in breeding dogs: regular examinations for Brucella canis.
Careful breeding planning with prior testing of progesterone levels, as well as health checks of both parent animals, minimizes the risk of hormone-related abortions and preventable infections.

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. depends on the cause of the abortionabortion refers to the loss of a pregnancy before the viability of the fetus, i.e. before it could survive outside the womb. This can be caused naturally by various factors or be medically induced. and the female dog’s overall health status. It is generally good. The female dog often recovers without further complications. Even with an underlying pathologicalPathological refers to anything related to diseases or their processes. Pathological changes are those that deviate from the normal structure or function and indicate a disease. cause, many female dogs can have a normal pregnancy in the future with appropriate treatment and care.
In cases of repeated abortions (especially if they occur in late pregnancy), underlying diseases or genetic factors should be investigated thoroughly.
After an abortionabortion refers to the loss of a pregnancy before the viability of the fetus, i.e. before it could survive outside the womb. This can be caused naturally by various factors or be medically induced., it is important to check the uterusThe uterus, also known as the womb, is a female reproductive organ in which the fetus grows and develops during pregnancy. It consists of muscle tissue and is lined with a mucous membrane. and the general condition to prevent secondary damage (e.g., endometritis).

Prevention

Preventing abortion in female dogs begins even before mating. A thorough veterinary examination, vaccinationVaccination is the process of administering a vaccine to develop immunity against a specific infectious disease. It is one of the most effective methods of prevention of infectious diseases. status check, and deworming are important to avoid infections. Breeding animals should be tested for hereditary diseases and hormonal disorders. During pregnancy, stress should be minimized, and the female dog should be protected from injuries. Contact with infected animals, especially in cases of brucellosis or canineCanine refers to anything related to dogs. The term is used to describe characteristics, diseases, or specific aspects that specifically affect dogs. herpesvirus, must be strictly avoided. High-quality, pregnancy-specific nutrition and a clean, quiet environment support a stable pregnancy. Regular ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. checks help detect problems early and take countermeasures.

Outlook on current research

Research into reproductive disorders in pets is increasingly focusing on molecular and genetic factors that can lead to abortions. New diagnostic methods such as next-generation sequencing enable the identification of previously unknown pathogens and genetic defects. The development of specific immunological tests could enable earlier detection of risk factors for abortions in the future.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

1. How can I tell if my female dog has had an abortion?

Common signs include Bleeding or discharge from the vagina, sudden cessation of pregnancy signs (e.g., reduced mammary development), apathy, Fever, or loss of appetite. If in doubt, a veterinary examination (e.g., ultrasound) should always be performed to determine whether an abortion is impending or has already occurred.

2. How is an abortion in a female dog diagnosed by a veterinarian?

Usually through a combination of ultrasound (checking the fetuses’ viability), blood tests (hormone status, infection markers), and vaginal swabs to identify the pathogen. If needed, an X-ray examination can also be performed in late pregnancy to assess the puppies.

3. What are the most common causes of miscarriage in dogs?

Infectious agents (e.g., e.g., Brucella canis , canine herpesvirus), hormonal disorders (progesterone deficiency), stress, poor mating hygiene, genetic defects, or anatomical anomalies of the uterus.

4. Can I prevent a miscarriage in my female dog?

Yes. Regular veterinary check-ups before and during pregnancy (incl. progesterone measurement, Brucella canis tests, etc.), good hygiene during mating, a balanced diet, avoiding stress, and vaccinations (as recommended by your veterinarian) can reduce the risk of abortion. 5. Is a female dog permanently infertile after a miscarriage

Not necessarily. Many female dogs are successfully mated again at the next heat after a miscarriage and carry the puppies to term. However, if abortions recur, comprehensive diagnostics (e.g., hormone check, examination for uterine anomalies) should be performed.

6. What can I do if I notice unusual discharge or Restlessness in my pregnant female dog?

Arrange an immediate veterinary examination. A Symptom Checker (such as petsvetcheck.de ) can provide initial indications, but it does not replace on-site clinical diagnosis. Rapid assessment is crucial to take timely action against an impending abortion if necessary.

7. Can infectious agents that cause an abortion be transmitted to humans?

With Brucella canis , there is a zoonosis risk (transmission to humans is possible, though rare). Other pathogens (e.g., bacterial infections) are less commonly transmissible; nevertheless, consistent hygiene (wearing gloves, disinfecting surfaces) is always advisable.

8. What role does the progesterone level play in maintaining pregnancy?

Progesterone is the key hormone that stabilizes the uterine lining and maintains the pregnancy. A level that is too low (progesterone deficiency) can trigger abortions. That is why hormone status is often monitored and, if necessary, supported artificially.

9. Is treatment always possible when an abortion is imminent?

That depends on the cause and the timing. In infections, appropriate drug treatment (antibiotics) can help. For hormonal disorders, there are approaches to supplement progesterone. However, not every impending abortion can be prevented—the later the process is recognized, the less favorable the prognosis.

10. What should you do after an abortion in a female dog?

Thorough veterinary follow-up care is important. This includes ultrasound checks to verify that all pregnancy tissue has been expelled. It should also be clarified whether an underlying condition (infection, uterine problem, etc.) is present. In some cases, a late consequence can be a uterine infection (pyometra), which is why close monitoring is advisable.