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Retention of Fetal Membranes (Retained Placenta) in Dogs

Occurrence: common
Location of illness: Abdomen/pelvis

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 06.11.2025

Retention of fetal membranesFetal membranes are thin layers of tissue that surround and protect the embryo in mammals, including humans. They are essential for the development of the fetus and include the amnion and the chorion., also known as retained 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., is a condition in dogs where 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 parts of it are not expelled after the birth of a puppy. This can lead to serious health complications if not treated in a timely manner.

The most important facts at a glance

Retention of fetal membranes, also known as retained placenta, is a condition in which 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. is not completely expelled after birth. In dogs, 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. should normally be expelled within 15 minutes after the birth of each puppy. Causes can include inadequate uterine contractions, hormonal imbalances, or structural abnormalities 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.. Symptoms include greenish-black vaginalVaginal refers to anything related to the vagina, the muscular tube that connects the external genitalia in female mammals to the uterus. discharge, Fever, and loss of appetite. 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. is made by clinical examinations, 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., and blood tests to detect infections or Inflammatory conditions. Treatment varies depending on the severity; mild cases can be treated with oxytocin, while more severe cases may require antibiotics or even surgery. 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. is good with early 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. and treatment, but untreated cases can lead to serious complications. For preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring., dogs should be closely monitored during pregnancy and birth. Research focuses on hormonal changes, genetic predispositions, and alternative therapeutic approaches. The role of nutrition is also being investigated to minimize the risk. The development of new diagnostic tools could improve the early detection and treatment of retention of fetal membranesFetal membranes are thin layers of tissue that surround and protect the embryo in mammals, including humans. They are essential for the development of the fetus and include the amnion and the chorion., leading to better outcomes and a higher quality of life for affected dogs.

Causes

The birthing phase in dogs is typically divided into three stages: the preparatory phase, the expulsion phase, and the afterbirth phase. During the afterbirth phase, 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., which provided the puppy with nutrients during pregnancy, is expelled. This usually occurs within 15 minutes after the birth of each puppy. Retention 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. can occur if the dog’s body cannot effectively expel 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..

One of the main causes of retention of fetal membranesFetal membranes are thin layers of tissue that surround and protect the embryo in mammals, including humans. They are essential for the development of the fetus and include the amnion and the chorion. in dogs is inadequate contraction 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., which can prevent 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. from being completely expelled. These inadequate contractions can be caused by various factors, including hormonal imbalances or a general weakness of the uterine muscles.

Other causes may include structural abnormalities 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., infections, or Inflammatory conditions. Incomplete separation 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. from the uterine wall can also play a role. Sometimes, 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. can also be retained due to mechanical blockages, such as a large litter that overstretches 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..

Symptoms

Very common symptoms:

Common symptoms:

Rare symptoms:

The symptoms of retained 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. in dogs can vary but are often quite clear. A common sign is the appearance of greenish or foul-smelling discharge from the dog’s vagina a few hours to days after giving birth. This may indicate an infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. caused by the retained 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..

Another symptom may be Fever, which is often associated with a bacterial infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. The dog may also show signs of Pain or discomfort, including restlessness, trembling, or even loss of appetite. In some cases, 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. swelling may occur if fluid or pus accumulates in 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..

Another serious symptom that can occur is general lethargy or weakness, which indicates that the dog may be suffering from a systemic infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. In severe cases, septicSeptic refers to an infection or condition characterized by the presence of pathogenic microorganisms in the blood or other tissues, often associated with a systemic inflammatory response. shock can occur, which can be life-threatening.

Diagnosis

The 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. of retention of fetal membranesFetal membranes are thin layers of tissue that surround and protect the embryo in mammals, including humans. They are essential for the development of the fetus and include the amnion and the chorion. usually begins with a thorough clinical examination of the dog. The veterinarian will take a detailed 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., including the number of puppies born, the duration of labor, and any observed abnormalities. A physical examination will be performed to identify signs of Fever, Pain, or abnormal discharge.

Imaging procedures such as 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. can be used to determine if placental remnants are present in 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.. An ultrasound can help examine the uterus for remaining placental tissue or fluid accumulation.

In addition, blood tests can be performed to detect signs of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. or inflammation. A complete blood count may show elevated white blood cells, indicating an infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. In some cases, a bacterial culture of the 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 performed to identify the exact type of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease..

Therapy

Treatment for retention of fetal membranesFetal membranes are thin layers of tissue that surround and protect the embryo in mammals, including humans. They are essential for the development of the fetus and include the amnion and the chorion. depends on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, medication with oxytocin, a 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. that stimulates uterine contractions, may be sufficient to expel 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.. Oxytocin is usually administered by injection and can help stimulate 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. to expel any remaining placental tissue.

In more severe cases, especially if there is an infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease., it may be necessary to administer antibiotics to combat the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. The choice of antibiotic depends on the type of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease., which can be identified by a bacterial culture. Pain relievers can also be prescribed to relieve the dog’s discomfort.

In extreme cases, or if other treatments are not successful, surgery may be necessary to remove the remaining 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.. This procedure is usually considered a last resort, as it carries additional risks.

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosis for dogs with retention of fetal membranesFetal membranes are thin layers of tissue that surround and protect the embryo in mammals, including humans. They are essential for the development of the fetus and include the amnion and the chorion. depends on the speed of 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. and the effectiveness of treatment. With early detection and appropriate treatment, 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. is usually good. Most dogs recover completely if 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. is removed in time and an infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. is treated effectively.

However, if the condition is not treated in a timely manner, it can lead to serious complications, including severe infections, uterine inflammation (metritis), or even sepsisSepsis is a life-threatening condition caused by the body's overwhelming response to an infection, which can lead to damage to its own tissues and organ failure., which can be life-threatening. In such cases, 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. may be considerably less favorable.

In the long term, fertilityFertility refers to the ability to conceive and bear offspring. In women, it refers to the ability to initiate and carry a pregnancy; in men, it refers to the ability to produce fertile sperm. problems can also occur, especially if 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. has been damaged by an infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. or surgery. It is important to carefully monitor the dog during the recovery phase and ensure that she receives the full support she needs.

Prevention

To minimize the risk of retention of fetal membranesFetal membranes are thin layers of tissue that surround and protect the embryo in mammals, including humans. They are essential for the development of the fetus and include the amnion and the chorion., dogs should be closely monitored during pregnancy and birth. Appropriate prenatal care can help identify and treat potential problems early on. It is important that the birth takes place in a clean and stress-free environment to minimize the risk of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease..

After the birth, the dog and her puppies should be examined regularly by a veterinarian to ensure that all placentas have been expelled and that there are no signs of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. The veterinarian can also provide recommendations on the dog’s nutrition and care to support her recovery.

In dogs who have had problems with retained 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. in the past, prophylactic treatment with oxytocin may be considered to facilitate the expulsion 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.. However, this should only be done under the guidance of a veterinarian.

Outlook on current research

Retention of fetal membranes, also known as retained placenta, is a condition in which the placenta or parts of it are not completely expelled after birth. While this condition has been more frequently studied in other animal species, such as cattle and horses, there are fewer comprehensive studies in dogs. Nevertheless, scientific interest in retained 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. in dogs has increased in recent years, as reproduction and birth in dogs are increasingly becoming the subject of veterinary medical research.

Current research projects focus on the hormonal changes that occur during and immediately after birth to better understand how these processes affect placental expulsion. In particular, the role of oxytocin, a 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. responsible for uterine contraction, is being intensively studied in research. Researchers are trying to find out whether an insufficient production or effect of oxytocin could contribute to retained 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. in dogs. 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. results suggest that administering oxytocin in certain dosages could help to completely expel 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..

Another important aspect of the research is the investigation of genetic predispositions. Some dog breeds appear to be more susceptible to retention of fetal membranesFetal membranes are thin layers of tissue that surround and protect the embryo in mammals, including humans. They are essential for the development of the fetus and include the amnion and the chorion., suggesting that genetic factors may play a role. Studies that identify genetic markers could help breeders and veterinarians in the future to provide warnings and take preventive measures to reduce the risk of this condition.

In terms of treatment options, researchers are also interested in developing alternative therapeutic approaches that are less invasiveInvasive describes medical procedures or pathogens that enter the body or penetrate tissue. In medicine, invasive procedures can range from minimally invasive techniques to open surgery. than current practice. These include, for example, herbal or homeopathic preparations that could support the contractile function 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. without causing the side effects of synthetic drugs.

The role of nutrition is also being investigated in current research. Some studies suggest that certain nutrient deficiencies during pregnancy could increase the likelihood of retained 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.. Researchers are working to develop specific nutritional plans that reduce the risk of such complications.

Another promising area of research is the development of diagnostic tools that enable the early detection of retention of fetal membranesFetal membranes are thin layers of tissue that surround and protect the embryo in mammals, including humans. They are essential for the development of the fetus and include the amnion and the chorion.. Currently, most diagnoses are clinical, based on the dog’s symptoms and behavior after birth. The development of imaging devices or biochemical tests could enable a more accurate and faster 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., which would lead to more effective treatment.

In summary, current research on retention of fetal membranesFetal membranes are thin layers of tissue that surround and protect the embryo in mammals, including humans. They are essential for the development of the fetus and include the amnion and the chorion. in dogs shows a growing interest in identifying the underlying causes and developing new treatment methods. While many questions remain open, the findings to date are promising and could lead to better treatment outcomes and a higher quality of life for affected dogs in the future.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is retention of fetal membranesFetal membranes are thin layers of tissue that surround and protect the embryo in mammals, including humans. They are essential for the development of the fetus and include the amnion and the chorion. in dogs?
Retention of fetal membranesFetal membranes are thin layers of tissue that surround and protect the embryo in mammals, including humans. They are essential for the development of the fetus and include the amnion and the chorion., also known as retained 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., is a condition in which 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 parts of it are not completely expelled from the mother after birth. This can lead to health complications if not treated in a timely manner.
What symptoms occur with retained 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.?
Symptoms may include restless behavior, Fever, discharge with an unpleasant odor, loss of appetite, and general weakness. Another sign may be the mother’s inability to care for the newborns.
How is the disease diagnosed?
The 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. is usually made by a clinical examination, which takes into account the animal’s 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. and symptoms. In some cases, imaging techniques such as 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. may be used to detect remaining placental tissue.
What treatment options are there?
Treatment usually involves the administration of oxytocin to promote uterine contractions and expel the remaining placental parts. In more severe cases, manual removal or surgical intervention may be necessary.
Can retained 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. be prevented?
While there is no guaranteed way to prevent the condition, regular veterinary check-ups during pregnancy and a balanced diet can reduce the risk. Observing the birth process and intervening promptly in the event of complications can also help minimize the risk.
How common is this condition in dogs?
The frequency of retention of fetal membranesFetal membranes are thin layers of tissue that surround and protect the embryo in mammals, including humans. They are essential for the development of the fetus and include the amnion and the chorion. in dogs is relatively low compared to other animal species, but it can occur in any litter. However, some breeds or individual dogs may be more susceptible.
What complications can occur if the condition is not treated?
If left untreated, retained 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. can lead to serious complications such as uterine inflammation, sepsisSepsis is a life-threatening condition caused by the body's overwhelming response to an infection, which can lead to damage to its own tissues and organ failure., or even Death. It is therefore important to see a veterinarian at the first signs of retention of fetal membranesFetal membranes are thin layers of tissue that surround and protect the embryo in mammals, including humans. They are essential for the development of the fetus and include the amnion and the chorion..
Do genetic factors play a role in susceptibility to retention of fetal membranesFetal membranes are thin layers of tissue that surround and protect the embryo in mammals, including humans. They are essential for the development of the fetus and include the amnion and the chorion.?
Yes, genetic factors may play a role. Some studies suggest that certain breeds or lines are more susceptible to this condition, suggesting a genetic predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases..
Is a special diet during pregnancy important to avoid retention of fetal membranesFetal membranes are thin layers of tissue that surround and protect the embryo in mammals, including humans. They are essential for the development of the fetus and include the amnion and the chorion.?
A balanced diet that meets the nutritional needs of the pregnant dog can help reduce the risk of retention of fetal membranes. It is important to ensure an adequate supply of vitamins and minerals.
What should I do if I suspect my dog has retained 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.?
If you suspect that your dog has retention of fetal membranesFetal membranes are thin layers of tissue that surround and protect the embryo in mammals, including humans. They are essential for the development of the fetus and include the amnion and the chorion., you should see a veterinarian immediately. A quick 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. and treatment are crucial to avoid serious complications.