Should You Breed a Dog with Prolapsed Uterus? Veterinary Advice & Important Facts

What Is a Vaginal Prolapse or Uterine Prolapse in Dogs?

When it comes to canine reproductive health, understanding the difference between vaginal protrusions, hyperplasia, and actual uterine prolapse is crucial for any dog owner or breeder

A vaginal prolapse occurs when the vagina is everted (turned inside out) from the body – imagine a sock being turned inside out. The tissue often swells in combination with a prolapse. In contrast, vaginal hyperplasia refers to having more tissue than normal due to an increase in the number of cells.

A prolapsed uterus is more serious and happens when the uterus descends from its normal position into or through the vaginal opening, creating a pink, fleshy mass protruding from the dog’s vagina

Can Dogs with Prolapsed Uterus Be Bred?

The short answer is NO.

Dogs with vaginal prolapse/hyperplasia must not be used for breeding as the problem can be passed to offspring. This is the consensus among veterinary experts.

Here’s why breeding a dog with prolapsed uterus is strongly discouraged:

• The condition is painful and potentially life-threatening
• It can cause significant complications during pregnancy and delivery
• There’s a high risk of recurrence with subsequent pregnancies
• The condition may have genetic components that could be passed to puppies
• The trauma and scarring from treatment may complicate future pregnancies

Breeds Predisposed to Vaginal Hyperplasia and Prolapse

Certain breeds are more likely to develop these conditions:

• Boxer
• English Bulldog
• Mastiff
• German Shepherd Dog
• Saint Bernard
• Labrador Retriever
• Chesapeake Bay Retriever
• Airedale Terrier
• English Springer Spaniel
• American Pit Bull Terrier
• Weimaraner

Since vaginal hyperplasia and prolapse tend to run in family lines, it’s best not to breed affected dogs even though the genetics aren’t fully understood yet.

Treatment Options for Vaginal Prolapses

If your dog experiences a vaginal prolapse, there are several treatment approaches:

1. Minor cases: The prolapse may resolve on its own as the dog’s heat cycle progresses or after spaying. Cleaning and applying moisturizing ointment may be sufficient.

2. Moderate cases: Your vet can manually reposition the tissue after cleaning and reducing swelling with hypertonic dextrose or sugar. Sutures might be needed to keep it in place.

3. Severe cases: If tissue has become necrotic (dead), surgical removal is necessary. Spaying is often recommended at the same time to prevent recurrence.

4. During delivery: Dogs experiencing prolapses during delivery might need an emergency C-section.

5. Hormone treatments: Sometimes hormone therapy can be used to make ovulation occur faster, but dogs generally don’t respond well to hormones.

Alternative Options for Dogs with Prolapsed Uterus

If you have a valuable breeding dog with a history of prolapse, consider these alternatives:

1. Artificial insemination: This can be utilized if the bitch is considered valuable and won’t allow natural breeding. However, pregnancy and delivery risks remain.

2. Spaying: This is the recommended approach to prevent recurrence and further injury.

3. Conservative management: After veterinary consultation, some cases might be managed with careful monitoring and lifestyle changes.

Risks of Breeding After Uterine Prolapse

Despite treatment, breeding a dog after experiencing uterine prolapse carries significant risks:

• High mortality rate: There’s potential for maternal and puppy deaths during delivery
• Recurrence: The prolapse may happen again during pregnancy or delivery
• Health issues for puppies: Offspring may inherit weakened tissues
• Complicated delivery: C-sections may be necessary for safe delivery

What to Do If You Notice a Vaginal Protrusion

If you notice a pink mass protruding from your dog’s vagina:

1. Contact your veterinarian immediately
2. If your dog seems in discomfort or is having trouble urinating, seek emergency veterinary care
3. During delivery of puppies, any abnormal vaginal protrusion is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention

Expert Recommendations

Veterinary experts consistently recommend against breeding dogs with a history of uterine or vaginal prolapse. The risks far outweigh any potential benefits.

If you suspect your dog has a prolapsed uterus or vaginal hyperplasia:

1. Seek immediate veterinary care
2. Follow your vet’s treatment recommendations
3. Consider spaying to prevent recurrence
4. Do not breed the affected dog

FAQ: Common Questions About Dogs with Prolapsed Uterus

Is prolapse in dogs genetic?

Yes, canine vaginal prolapse is more common in certain breeds, suggesting genetics plays a major role in its development.

How serious is a prolapsed uterus in dogs?

Very serious. It can prevent urination and cause severe complications if not treated promptly. The uterus will likely prolapse again if the dog isn’t spayed.

How common is prolapsed uterus in dogs?

True vaginal prolapse is rare in dogs but can occur during difficult births (dystocia), constipation, or when breeding is interrupted.

What causes uterine prolapse in dogs?

Excessive straining during labor or delivery is the most common cause. Other factors include obesity, poor nutrition, vaginal infections, and weakened pelvic ligaments.

Can a prolapsed uterus be fixed without surgery?

For a brief period, reduction (pushing the uterus back into place) may work. However, without spaying, many dogs will experience another prolapse.

Conclusion

While it might be tempting to breed a valuable dog despite a history of uterine prolapse, the veterinary consensus is clear: dogs with prolapsed uterus should not be bred. The condition is painful, potentially hereditary, and puts both the mother and potential puppies at significant risk.

If your dog has experienced uterine prolapse, the most responsible choice is to have her spayed to prevent recurrence and future suffering. Remember that your dog’s health and well-being should always come before breeding considerations.

Always consult with a veterinarian about your specific dog’s situation, as they can provide guidance tailored to your pet’s unique needs and medical history.