Tag: spay

Great Dane Surgery & What to Ask Your Veterinarian
Great Dane surgery can be expensive and scary. Many people are concerned about the risks of anesthesia for their Great Dane, and understandably so!

A quick glance around any of the Great Dane social groups on Facebook and it’s easy to spot yet another devastating story of a Great Dane that didn’t survive a routine surgical procedure.

In response to this problem, the Great Dane Club of America has released some helpful guidelines and information to consider when your dog has to be put under anesthesia for any reason.

We will share this information below, and show you how to keep your Great Dane safe during surgery.

(This post contains images of healthy Great Danes under anesthesia.)

Why is Surgery Risky for Great Danes

Large and giant breed dogs can be prone to surgical complications including:
- DIC (Disseminated Intravascular Coagulopathy), which causes blood clotting issues
- Heart failure
- Shock
- Hypothermia (becoming too cold)
- Anesthesia drug overdose, which can lead to seizures & vomiting
It is important to note that every dog has a different risk factor. Many Great Danes successfully undergo surgery all the time, however, and it’s important to not be fearful of quality veterinary care .

As a general rule, dogs with existing health problems (including Dilated Cardiomyopathy/DCM or Von Willebrand) or obesity are at a much higher risk of developing complications than others.

In addition to those factors, Great Danes are giant breed dogs who take up a lot of space in the veterinary office and surgical suite. In some places, they may actually be too large for the surgical equipment available, or may be too bulky for the staff to handle as carefully as possible.

What Surgeries do Great Danes Get? Great Dane Surgery types:

Before we get into how to prevent surgical complications in your Great Dane, let’s talk about a few reasons why you may need to elect surgery for your dog.

Here are just a few common reasons why your Great Dane may have surgery:
- Ear Cropping
- Routine spay or neuter
- Gastropexy (Stomach Tacking)
- Teeth cleaning (Dental Prophylaxis)
- Removal of a mass or tumor
- Amputation
- C-Sections
- Orthopedic surgery to repair damaged hips or bones
- Emergencies, such as bloat
In many cases, the benefits of surgery far outweigh the risks, especially when taking individual risk factors into account.

We cannot emphasize this enough: overweight Great Danes and those who suffer from preventable health conditions such as nutritional DCM, abuse and neglect, or certain genetic disorders are at a much higher risk of complications during surgery.

Great Dane Club of America Surgical Guidelines

The GDCA has outlined some evidence-based surgical guidelines for Great Dane owners. This information should be used in tandem with an honest discussion with your veterinarian prior to your dog undergoing surgery.

It is so important to work with a veterinarian that you trust!

The GDCA states (summary) that owners should consider the following:
- Work with a veterinarian who is experienced in large & giant breed surgeries
- Perform surgery only on healthy animals (barring emergencies, of course)
- If elected, spay should be done about 3 months after the last season
- The veterinarian should do a complete examination of the dog
- An EKG should be performed to assess the health of the dog’s heart
- Pre-surgical blood work is a must, and should include a CBC, Serum Chemistry Panel, and Blood Clotting Profile
If all of those factors are met, and the choice to proceed with surgery is made, there are additional things to keep in mind:
- The dog should fast overnight prior to surgery
- During surgery, fluid IV therapy should be administered
- Pulse oximetry, cardiac monitoring, and blood pressure monitoring
- Propofol and Sevoflurane are considered the safest anesthetic agents
- Ketamine, Valium, and isoflurane are more available, less expensive, and acceptable
- Rompun, Acepromazine, and Thiopentals are not recommended
- Adequate pain control and comfort measures to reduce stress are necessary
During surgery, dogs are prone to becoming too cold and suffering from hypothermia. This can cause problems for the dogs heart and cardiovascular system, blood clotting/coagulation, recovery time, and may increase the risk of infection.

Temperature monitoring, warmed IV fluids, blankets, heating pads, and even bubble wrap are recommended and necessary.

We do not recommend that Great Danes undergo surgery at low cost clinics, if they can be avoided. Low cost clinics are an incredible resource especially for those on a budget; however, they may not have the time, staff, or tools needed to keep a Great Dane safe according to the GDCA recommendations.

You can read (and print) the GDCA Surgical Recommendations HERE (click on “Surgical Guidelines for the Great Dane”). Share this information with your veterinarian.

When is a Great Dane too Old for Surgery?

While age can slightly increase complications, it’s important to remember that “age is not a disease.” Many mature-aged Great Danes (age 5 and up) undergo surgery with no complications at all.

As a matter of fact, in some cases, choosing surgery is the choice with less risk!

A Prophylactic Dental Cleaning is a great example of a place where, for most dogs, the benefits of elective surgery far outweigh the risks.

Many people are hesitant to have their veterinarian clean their dogs teeth under anesthesia, however, bad dental health can lead to a slew of health problems that can shorten lifespan. Not only that, but bad teeth can be exceptionally painful for your dog!

Read here for why sedation-free dentistry is bad

No matter what your dog’s age, talk to your veterinarian. Experienced professionals who understand how to safely perform anesthesia on large and giant breed dogs can put your mind at ease.

Great Dane Surgical Death Statistics

Check out this quote from Mary Anne Zanetos, chairwoman of the GDCA Health Survey Committee:

Most of the post-surgical deaths were seen in young, healthy dogs undergoing elective procedures.

No wonder so many Great Dane owners struggle with the decision to put their dog through elective surgery! Many underlying conditions, including nutritional DCM and blood clotting disorders can be a factor for dogs who appear otherwise to be very healthy.

Reducing complications in surgery for Great Danes requires a three-factor approach:
1. Ensure through ethical breeding that genetic disorders such as heart disease and blood clotting problems are not passed on to future generations
2. Use science-backed health, nutrition, and care practices so that the dog is as healthy as possible
3. Working with an experienced veterinarian who is using evidence-based protocols in the care of giant breed dogs that are put under anesthesia
Read HERE for why Grain-Free Dog Food Should NOT be Fed to Great Danes

Purina Great Dane Update Surgical Guidelines for Great Danes
January 16, 2023
The Deadly Risk of Mammary Tumors in Dogs: The Number 1 Most Common Tumor in Female Dogs
Mammary tumors are the most common type of tumor found in female dogs. While they can often be benign, it is important to take steps to reduce the risk of mammary tumors as much as possible. In this blog post, we will discuss this deadly disease and what steps you can take to prevent or treat it.

MAMMARY TUMORS IN DOGS

A mammary tumor is a growth or lump that develops in the breast tissue of a dog. Mammary tumors occur mostly in female dogs and can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). They can, however, happen in male dogs as well.

MAMMARY CHAINS

A mammary chain is a line of mammary glands that extends from the chest to the groin on each side of a dog’s body. There are typically five to eight mammary glands in each chain.

ADENOCARCINOMA

The most common type of mammary tumor in dogs is an adenocarcinoma, which starts in the cells that line the ducts of the mammary gland. Adenocarcinomas make up about 50% of all mammary tumors.

MAMMARY CARCINOMA IN DOGS

There are several different types of mammary carcinomas, each with its own set of symptoms and treatment options. The most common type of mammary carcinoma is an adenocarcinoma, which starts in the cells that line the ducts of the mammary gland. Adenocarcinomas make up about 50% of all tumors in mammary glands.

INFLAMMATORY MAMMARY CARCINOMA

An inflammatory mammary carcinoma is a type of adenocarcinoma that is characterized by the infiltration of inflammatory cells into the tumor. This type of tumor accounts for about 15% of all mammary tumors. Inflammatory Carcinoma of the mammary gland is a very aggressive form of cancer and has a poor prognosis.

LOBULAR CARCINOMA IN SITU (LCIS)

Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) is a type of non-invasive breast cancer. It is considered a precancerous condition because it may develop into an invasive cancer over time. LCIS is not common in dogs, but it is important to be aware of it.

METASTATIC DISEASE

Metastatic disease is cancer that has spread from the original tumor site to other parts of the body. Metastatic mammary tumors are relatively rare in dogs, but they can occur.

MAMMARY GLAND HYPERPLASIA

Mammary Gland Hyperplasia is a condition in which the mammary gland cells grow excessively. It is the most common benign mammary tumor, accounting for about 25% of all tumors.

FIBROCYSTIC CHANGES

Fibrocystic changes are a type of benign breast disease that is characterized by the growth of abnormal tissue in the breasts.

BENIGN TUMOR

Benign tumors are not as serious and are not usually life-threatening. Malignant tumors, on the other hand, can be very aggressive and spread to other parts of the body.

Although benign tumors are not as dangerous, they can still cause problems. They can grow to be large and uncomfortable, and may even interfere with your dog’s ability to urinate or defecate properly.

MALIGNANT TUMOR TYPES

Malignant tumors occur in about 50% of all tumors and are the most serious type of tumor. These tumors can spread to other parts of the body, and are often fatal.

There are several different types of malignant mammary tumors, but the most common type is Adenocarcinoma. Adenocarcinomas make up about 50% of all malignant mammary tumors. Other types of cancerous tumors include sarcomas, lymphomas, and mast cell tumors.

RISK FACTORS FOR MAMMARY CANCER

There are several factors that can increase your dog’s risk of developing a tumor in their mammary glands. Each risk factor will be different for your individual dog. These include:
1. Age: Older dogs are more at risk for a mammary tumor. The average age of dogs diagnosed with tumors is six years old and older dogs are more likely to develop a mammary mass than those of a young age.
2. Breed: Some commonly affected breeds are more prone to a mammary tumor than others. Breeds that are at an increased risk include: Poodles, Bichons Frises, Boston terriers, Cocker Spaniels, Dachshunds, Lhasa Apsos, Maltese, Miniature Schnauzers, Shih Tzus, Springer Spaniels, and Yorkshire Terriers.
3. Unspayed females: Dogs that have not been spayed are at a much higher risk for developing mammary masses. In fact, unspayed dogs are six times more likely to develop mammary sarcomas than spayed dogs and have a poorer prognosis with treatment.
4. Certain health conditions: Dogs with certain health conditions are also at an increased risk for tumors in dogs. These conditions include Cushing’s disease, diabetes, and obesity.
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Is My Dog ‘Filling Out’ or Getting Fat?
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Obesity in Great Danes: Fat Danes Face Serious Health Risks
Supplements for Great Danes
Male Great Dane Weight
How to Stop Overfeeding Your Dog

Now that we know some of the risk factors for mammary cancer, let’s discuss some steps that you can take to help reduce your dog’s risk.

REDUCING THE RISK OF MAMMARY CANCER IN DOGS
1. GETTING FEMALE DOGS SPAYED (READ ABOUT SPAY/FALSE PREGNANCY HERE)
2. REGULAR CHECKUPS AND SCREENINGS FOR EARLY DETECTION
3. KEEPING YOUR DOG AT A HEALTHY WEIGHT
4. AVOIDING AND PREVENTING ALTERNATIVE HEALTH CONDITIONS
5. FEED A HEALTHY DIET (FIND OUR FAVORITE FOODS HERE)
6. PROVIDE GOOD EXERCISE (READ MORE)
GETTING DOGS SPAYED CAN PREVENT MAMMARY CANCER

Spaying your female dog: This is the number one thing that you can do to reduce your dog’s risk of developing malignant tumors. Spaying your dog eliminates her heat cycles, which helps to reduce the chances of developing malignant tumors.

SHOULD YOU SPAY YOUR DOG

REGULAR SCREENINGS TO CHECK HEALTH STATUS

Regular check-ups and screenings: Taking your dog for regular check-ups and screenings can help to catch any potential problems early. Your veterinarian can check for lumps or bumps and may even recommend mammary gland screenings.

TAKING YOUR DOG TO THE VET

KEEPING YOUR FEMALE DOGS AT THE RIGHT WEIGHT

Weight control: Keeping your dog at a healthy weight is important for many reasons, including reducing the risk of mammary gland cancer. Obesity is a risk factor for a malignant mammary tumor, so keeping your dog at a healthy weight can help to reduce her risk.

Is My Dog ‘Filling Out’ or Getting Fat?
8 Nutrition Facts to Keep Your Dog at the Right Weight
Obesity in Great Danes: Fat Danes Face Serious Health Risks

PREVENTING ALTERNATIVE HEALTH CONDITIONS

Avoiding certain health conditions: As we mentioned before, certain health conditions can increase the risk of breast cancer. Cushing’s disease, diabetes, and obesity are all risk factors for mammary tissue Cancer. Keeping your dog healthy and avoiding these conditions can help to reduce her risk.

COMMON HEALTH CONDITIONS

FEED A HEALTHY DIET

Feeding a healthy diet: A healthy diet is important for all dogs, but it can be especially important for those at risk for mammary gland cancer. A healthy diet can help to keep your dog at a healthy weight and can also help to reduce the risk of other health conditions that can increase the risk of a malignant tumor.

GIVE A LOT OF GOOD EXERCISE

Exercise: Exercise is important for all dogs, but it can be especially important for those at risk for mammary tumors. Exercise helps to keep your dog at a healthy weight and can also help to reduce the risk of other health conditions that can increase the risk of cancer cells developing.

Socialization Activities For Great Danes
Can Great Danes Swim?
Should I Go to the Dog Park?

By following these steps, you can help to reduce your dog’s risk of developing a tumor in their mammary gland.

SYMPTOMS OF CANINE MAMMARY TUMORS

Symptoms of a malignant tumor depends on the tumor size, type, and location.

Common symptoms of a mammary tumor may include:
1. a lump or mass in the mammary area that is usually not painful
2. discharge from the nipple
3. enlargement of the breast tissue
4. severe swelling of breast tissue
5. ulceration or crusting of the skin over the tumor
6. inverted nipples
Some physical symptoms may include:
1. weight loss
2. lethargy
3. poor appetite
4. vomiting
5. diarrhea
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to take your dog to the veterinarian for an examination. Early detection is key to successful treatment.

DIAGNOSING BREAST CANCER IN DOGS

Diagnosing benign mammary tumors in dogs requires:
1. identification of clinical signs by pet owner
2. a physical examination
3. breast radiographs (x-rays)
4. mammary ultrasound
5. fine needle aspiration or biopsy
6. biochemical profile
7. complete blood count (CBC)
8. chest x rays
9. abdominal ultrasound
A chest x-ray may be recommended to check for metastasis, or the spread of cancer to other parts of the body. When caught early, the chances of successful treatment are much higher.

Mammary tumors are relatively common in dogs, but that doesn’t mean

TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR CANINE MAMMARY TUMORS

The type of treatment recommended will depend on the stage of the tumor, as well as the size and location.

SURGERY / TUMOR REMOVAL

Surgery is the most common treatment for mammary tumors, and involves removal of the tumor and surrounding tissue. The margins of the tumor will be checked to ensure that all of the cancerous tissue has been removed. If the entire tumor has not been removed, additional surgery may be needed.

CHEMOTHERAPY

Chemotherapy may be recommended in addition to surgery or as a standalone treatment. It is typically only used for malignant tumors, as benign tumors do not usually respond to chemotherapy.

RADIATION THERAPY

Radiation therapy may be recommended in addition to surgery or as a standalone treatment. It is typically only used for malignant tumors, as benign tumors do not usually respond to radiation therapy.

The type of treatment recommended will depend on the stage of the tumor, as well as the size and location.

HORMONAL THERAPY

Hormonal therapy may be recommended in addition to surgery or as a standalone treatment. It is typically only used for malignant tumors, as benign tumors do not usually respond to hormonal therapy.

These are just a few of the treatment options available for dogs with mammary tumors. Your veterinarian will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is best for your dog.

PROGNOSIS OF MAMMARY GLAND TUMORS

The prognosis for dogs with mammary tumors is generally good, especially if the tumor is caught early.

With treatment, most dogs make a full recovery and live normal, healthy lives.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that mammary tumors can be aggressive and have a high rate of recurrence. It’s important to always monitor intact female dogs closely.

READ MORE:
Great Dane Not Eating – What to Do
Great Dane Farts: The Funniest Collection of Photos and Videos on the Internet
The Best Collars for Great Danes
Blue Great Danes – Facts, Photos, and Care
July 28, 2022
False Pregnancy Dog Issues: The Silent, Deadly and Normal Female Dog Killer
False pregnancy dog issues can not only be annoying, but they are very dangerous and can cause major problem- even death.

If you’re a dog owner, then you may have heard of false pregnancy. This is a condition that can occur in female dogs who have not been spayed. False pregnancy can cause the dog to exhibit many of the same symptoms as pregnant dogs, including lactation and nesting behavior. In this blog post, we will discuss what causes false pregnancy in dogs, how to spot the symptoms, and how to treat it.

SHOULD YOU SPAY YOUR DOG?

FALSE PREGNANCY DOG ISSUES: WHAT IS A FALSE PREGNANCY?

False pregnancies occur in female dogs who have not been spayed (intact female dog). (READ MORE)This is because they still have their ovaries and uterus, which can produce eggs and allow for implantation. However, in a false pregnancy, the eggs are not fertilized and there is no fetus present.

Despite this, the dog’s body will go through many of the same changes as if she were pregnant. This is because the hormones associated with pregnancy (estrogen and progesterone) are still present in her system. These hormones can cause the dog to exhibit many of the same symptoms as a pregnant dog, even though she is not actually carrying puppies.

PREGNANCY IN DOGS

Most female dogs should not get pregnant, despite producing puppies being a natural and healthy thing for a female dog.

Backyard breeding of an unspayed female dog who has not been health tested for genetic issues like hips, heart, eyes, or more can cause puppies to be born with congenital defects. These defects can range from mild (like a cleft palate) to severe (like heart abnormalities). They can also be expensive to treat and cause short life spans.

WHY IS OFA HEALTH TESTING IMPORTANT?
BAD BREEDERS

Additionally, pregnancy and childbirth are risky for the mother dog. Some risks include infection, uterine rupture, retained placenta, and more. For these reasons, it is best to spay your female dog before she comes into heat (usually around six months of age but varies by breed as large breed dogs should not be spayed until age 24 months). This will also help to prevent false pregnancy.

UNSPAYED DOGS AND RISKS

Unspayed female dogs face risks that other female dogs do not face such as pyometra, mastitis, and mammary cancer. (LEARN MORE ABOUT SPAYS HERE)

PYOMETRA

Female dogs that are not spayed have a high risk of developing pyometra, which is an infection of the uterus. This can be a life-threatening condition for dogs and often requires emergency surgery to remove the infected uterus.

MASTITIS

Mastitis is an inflammation of the mammary glands that can occur during false pregnancy or lactation. This can cause the dog to produce milk even if she is not pregnant, and can be very painful for her. If left untreated, mastitis can lead to sepsis (a potentially fatal condition caused by infection).

BREAST CANCER

Unspayed female dogs also have an increased risk of developing mammary gland tumors, which is Cancer of the mammary gland. This is a type of cancer that affects the mammary glands and can be fatal if left untreated. Pet owners who notice mammary gland enlargement should take note of the physical signs, their dog’s symptoms, and take a vet visit for a blood test and medical treatment.

SYMPTOMS OF FALSE PREGNANCY IN DOGS

False pregnancy can cause the dog to exhibit many of the same symptoms as dogs who are experiencing an actual, true pregnancy. Signs of false pregnancy can vary from dog to dog.

False pregnancy symptoms can include, but are not limited to:
1. Nesting behavior (preparing a “nest” for her puppies)
2. Trying to carry around soft toys
3. Increased appetite
4. Lactation (milk production)
5. Abdominal enlargement
6. Mothering behavior towards other animals or inanimate objects
7. Mammary glands swollen
8. Hormonal changes
9. Behavioral changes
10. Vaginal discharge
11. Some dogs lose weight and some experience weight gain
In mild cases of false pregnancy, a dog may only exhibit one or two of these symptoms. In more severe cases, a dog may exhibit most or all of these symptoms. If your dog is showing any signs of false pregnancy, it is best to take her to the vet for an examination.

Additional supportive exercise, enrichment, engaging toys and activities will help to keep your dog’s mind off of their hormone surge. Here are some ideas:

Socialization Activities For Great Danes
Can Great Danes Swim?
Should I Go to the Dog Park?
Going on an Adventure with Your Dog
Is the Dog Park a Good Idea?

CORRELATION BETWEEN A FALSE PREGNANCY AND HEAT CYCLE

A heat cycle is when a female dog is in “heat” or able to mate and produce puppies. The average heat cycle lasts about three weeks, with the first week being the time when the female is most fertile. Having an estrus cycle is a normal part of a female dog’s life. Some dogs will go into heat every few months- while most is breed dependent.

Why Should Puppies Stay with their Litter Until 8 Weeks?
Best Training Treats for Great Dane Puppies

A false pregnancy can occur any time after a heat cycle has ended. This means that a false pregnancy can happen even if the dog was not actually mated during her heat cycle.

Certain breeds of dogs are more prone to false pregnancy than others. These include:
1. Dogs who have had a previous false pregnancy
2. Small breed dogs
3. Dogs who have not been spayed (SPAY INFO)
4. Dogs with irregular heat cycles
5. Dogs who have experienced a traumatic event (such as the loss of a litter of puppies) Dogs who have been bred multiple times
Off Color and Designer Great Danes
Bad Breeders
Scam Breeders: What to Look For
Breeders: Shady Business
Should I Choose a Breeder or Rescue?
Choosing a Dog From a Show Breeder
What Makes a Breeder Good?
What is a backyard breeder? The AKC has 1000’s.
What is OFA Health Testing?

WILL A PSEUDO PREGNANCY IN DOGS CAUSE THEM TO PRODUCE MILK?

Producing milk seems like an unusual thing when your pup is not actually pregnant. However, producing milk is actually a somewhat common on the list of clinical signs of a false pregnancy.

WHAT NOT TO DO IF YOUR DOG IS PRODUCING MILK

Although it is common knowledge that ‘milking’ a lactating breast will cause the hormones to prepare more milk, it is not recommended to ‘leave the milk’ inside of the dogs.

MAMMARY GLAND DEVELOPMENT

During puberty of a pregnant dog, the hormone levels are rapidly changing, causing an increase in estrogen and progesterone. These high hormone levels stimulate the development of milk-producing cells in the mammary glands.

Many people simply do nothing to help their pup experience these hormone changes- and that CAN be okay. However, there are also risks involved with doing nothing to get the milk out of the mammary gland.

MASTITIS RISKS

During a false pregnancy, the hormonal changes are already present and too much milk could cause the dog’s mammary glands to become engorged, which could lead to mastitis. If your dog is lactating, it is best to express only enough milk to relieve the discomfort and then discontinue milking.

So, yes, by milking your dog, you will create more milk production. But, in doing so for a few weeks you will also be preventing swollen mammary glands and infection which can be life threatening to a dog producing milk.

By gradually ‘weaning’ the milking, you will also help to ‘dry up’ the milk production by decreasing the amount of times your dog’s mammary glands are stimulated.

PYOMETRA

Pyometra is a uterine infection that can occur in dogs who have not been spayed. This infection can happen at any age but is most common in older, unspayed female dogs.

A dog with pyometra will often show signs of a false pregnancy, including:
1. Abdominal enlargement
2. Increased appetite
3. Increased urination
4. Nesting behavior
5. Restlessness
6. Vaginal discharge
7. Weight gain or loss (Weight gain) (Dog won’t eat)
Severe Pyometra will have bloody discharge and a fever. If your dog is showing any of these signs or if your dog appears physically ill, it is important to take her to the vet immediately as Pyometra can be life-threatening.

HOW TO HELP A DOG GO THROUGH A FALSE PREGNANCY

If your dog is going through a false pregnancy, there are some things that you can do to help her through it.

First, it is important to understand that a false pregnancy is USUALLY not dangerous to your dog and does not require treatment. However, it can be VERY dangerous- even life threatening.

However, if your dog is exhibiting signs of a false pregnancy, it is best to take her to the vet for an examination. This will help rule out any other possible causes of her symptoms and ensure that she is healthy, not facing any potential womb infections, and examine whether your dog is truly not pregnant.

Once you have ruled out any other possible causes of her physical changes, there are some things that you can do to help your dog through a false pregnancy:
1. Provide her with a safe place to nest (Big Barker is our favorite bed)
2. Give her extra attention and love
3. Make sure she is getting enough exercise and mental engagement (Here are some ideas)
4. Do not allow her to mate
5. Feed her a high-quality diet (Our favorites here)
6. Talk to your vet about physical activity
ACTIVITIES TO DO WITH YOUR DOG- CLICK HERE
NEED HELP WITH WHAT TO FEED YOUR DOG? CLICK HERE
THE BEST TOYS- CLICK HERE

If your dog is going through a false pregnancy, the most important thing that you can do is to be there for her. Show her extra attention and love, make sure she is getting enough exercise, and provide her with a safe place to nest. By doing these things, you will help your dog through this difficult time.

CHECK OUT THE BIG BARKER BED- WHICH IS THE BEST BED FOR LARGE BREEDS:

False pregnancy in dogs is relatively common, but unfortunately can be very dangerous. If you have a dog experiencing clinical signs of false pregnancies, you should monitor them closely.

FALSE PREGNANCIES AND GETTING YOUR DOG SPAYED TOO YOUNG

It is important that your dog be allowed to produce hormones.

Depending on their breed, hormones prepare the dog’s body for more than just pregnancy.

Male dogs rely on testosterone for their health, while female dogs rely on progesterone and other reproductive hormones for theirs.

Progesterone has been linked to bone health, heart health, and a healthy immune system in dogs. Testosterone is important for male dog’s libido, muscle development, and red blood cell production.

Both hormones are proven to be a beneficial and crucial aspect in the joint development of dogs. Below you can see images of breeds, with comparison of pediatric spay development and the same dog who was allowed to develop normally.

Arthritis in Great Danes
Laser Therapy for Joint Pain
How to Help a Dog with a Broken Leg
Wobblers Syndrome: Everything You Need to Know
Using CBD for My Dog’s Pain

HOW TO PREVENT FUTURE FALSE PREGNANCIES

Once your dog has had a Phantom Pregnancy, it is possible that they might have another one. Phantom Pregnancy in dogs is caused by a hormonal imbalance and unfortunately, there is no way to prevent future episodes.

The best way to prevent future false pregnancies is to have your dog spayed at the right time. Spaying your dog will remove her ovaries and uterus, which will eliminate the possibility of her ever having another false pregnancy.

Not only will spaying your dog prevent future false pregnancies, but, when done at the right time for your breed, it will also help to keep her healthy. Spaying your dog will reduce her risk of developing certain types of cancer and other health problems.

FINAL THOUGHTS ON FALSE PREGNANCY IN DOGS

False pregnancy in dogs is a relatively common condition that can be caused by a hormonal imbalance.

If your dog is exhibiting signs of false pregnancy, it is important to take her to the vet for an examination. This will help rule out any other possible causes of her symptoms and ensure that she is healthy.

Once you have ruled out any other possible causes of her physical changes, there are some things that you can do to help your dog through a false pregnancy:
1. Provide her with a safe place to nest
2. Give her extra attention and love
3. Make sure she is getting enough exercise
4. Do not allow her to mate
5. Feed her a high-quality diet
6. Do not spay during false pregnancy
7. Talk to your vet about physical activity
If your dog is going through a false pregnancy, the most important thing that you can do is to be there for her. Show her extra attention and love, make sure she is getting enough exercise, and provide her with a safe place to nest. By doing these things, you will help your dog through this difficult time.

False pregnancy in dogs is relatively common, but unfortunately can be very dangerous. If you have a dog experiencing clinical signs of a phantom pregnancy, you should monitor them closely and consult with your veterinarian.

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July 27, 2022
9 Important Factors to Consider About When to Spay a Great Dane
Wondering when to spay a Great Dane? Female Great Dane owners are often unsure to have their dog spayed and do not know when the right time is. It doesn’t help that there are so many opinions online, not to mention, many veterinarians approach this differently too!

There are a few things to consider before making the decision to spay your Great Dane.

When to Spay a Great Dane

Great Danes are giant breeds which can grow, on average to about 120-150 pounds. They are one of the tallest breeds of dogs and have a life expectancy of around 8-12 years.

There are many schools of thought about when to spay a Great Dane, but it is believed that in general, large and giant breed dogs may benefit from delaying the procedure until their joints are more mature.

Because most pets are spayed before their first heat cycle, choosing to delay comes with many considerations (accidental puppies being just one of them). Outside of accidental puppies, intact female Great Danes are more prone to mammary cancer and pyometra.

Some studies show that delayed spay (waiting until after age 1-2 in Great Danes):
- Can reduce the risk of osteosarcoma
- May reduce the risk of ACL/CCL tears
- Will likely result in a better structural outcome of the adult dog, which means stronger bones, better joints, and less chance of early onset arthritis
While these benefits of keeping a female Great Dane intact are still being studied, it’s important to note that there are many negatives, too. It’s important to speak with your veterinarian and balance the pros and cons of spaying your Great Dane.

What Does Spaying Your Great Dane Mean?

Making a decision to alter your female dog means that you complete the surgical removal process of her ovaries and uterus.

The benefits of spaying your Great Dane include:
- Reduced risk or even risk elimination of dangerous health conditions such as pyometra, mammary cancer, ovary cancer, and otherwise
- No heat cycles to deal with
- No accidental puppies
- No false pregnancies or milk production
- Often, calmer and more stable behavior
Making the decision on when to spay a Great Dane should not be taken lightly. You should consider researching the pros and cons on when to spay a Great Dane. In other pets and breeds of dogs, this is generally done when your dog is between the ages of four to six months, but can be done at any age.

Making the Decision on When to Spay a Great Dane

There are a few things to keep in mind before you make the decision on when to spay a Great Dane, or whether to spay at an early age or young age.

Many people will tell you that they ‘spayed their dog at 6 months’ and their dog was ‘fine’.

Keep in mind that ‘fine’ is a relative, unregulated term and everybody has a different definition for this term. Anecdotal stories should be taken with a grain of salt.

We recommend consulting with your veterinarian, who should have some continuing education on the topic. If you choose to keep your Dane intact until she’s older, it’s important to understand the risk factors that come with that decision.

Female Great Danes

A female Great Dane develops much differently than male Great Danes. In general, they tend to be smaller and not as muscular or masculine in their appearance.

Female dogs have sexual reproductive organs which are full of hormones. These hormones contribute to their growth and development and are present before spaying or neutering a dog. However, after spay or neuter, the hormones are removed.

This can impact their ability to grow in the way in which they were designed.

Risks or Considerations for Spaying Great Dane Dogs

There are other health considerations for female Great Danes and when to spay a Great Dane in general (and some of the same risks are relevant with neutered males). Here are some of the risks associated with early spay (prior to one year of age):

1. Hormone-Responsive Urinary Incontinence

Urinary incontinence is a somewhat common health concern for female dogs that were spayed at a young age.

This can mean that they leak urine when they rest or sleep.

There are medications to treat this, and it is generally harmless (just messy).

2. Weight Gain

Another consideration is your dog gaining weight. It is not uncommon for your dog to put on a few pounds after being spayed. The main reason for this weight uptick is due to a decrease their metabolism.

To avoid this weight increase, it is important to keep up with a healthy diet and moderate exercise for your dog even after they have been spayed.

After spay or neuter, sometimes the energy level of your dog can slow, which makes it more difficult to keep the weight off. It is very important that you monitor food intake and activity levels, as excess weight can shorten lifespan by as much as 2 years.

There is only one person who knows your Great Dane and it’s best- and it’s you- so be sure to advocate for them whenever possible!

3. Cancer

Knowing when to spay a Great Dane is a very difficult decision. There are also some risks to keeping your dog in tact, and one of those can be certain types of cancer. Giants dogs are unfortunately more prone to certain types of cancer. One of those being mammary cancer, which is common in older female dogs that have not been spayed.

This type of cancer is almost nonexistent in dogs that have been spayed at an early age. Therefore, spaying your female dog at age 2 minimizes the risk of seeing this form of cancer significantly.

On the flip side, some studies show that osteosarcoma cancer is more common in pets that were spayed under the age of one.

Risks of Cancer in Getting or Not Getting Your Male Great Dane Neutered

Testicular cancer can be found in your Male Great Dane if they are not neutered. This is another form of cancer that can be easily prevented by getting your dog fixed early on. Testicular cancer is not as common as mammary cancer, but it is still something to keep in mind when making the decision of whether you want to keep your male Great Dane in tact or opt for the decision to neuter your male dog.

4. Unwanted Pregnancy with your Female Great Dane and Other Dogs

Of course, if you decide to not spay or neuter your dog there is always a risk for unwanted puppies.

Any time there are two dogs that are not the same gender together, as well as not fixed, you run the risk of having an unplanned pregnancy. Un-spayed and un-neutered dogs tend to gravitate towards one another and intact males will do almost anything to get to a female in heat.

Unplanned puppies are a massive burden on the shelter/rescue system, not to mention, a LOT of work. Pregnancy is a medical condition that comes with complications which can be devastating to the female dog. Breeding and unplanned pregnancies should never be taken lightly.

5. Behaviors of Dogs

Many people will state that there are different behaviors before and after the spay or neuter process. This is true, however, this should not be a primary reason to spay or neuter your dog. We have seen countless dog families rely on the spay or neuter to correct unwanted behavior or aggressive behavior. Unfortunately, spaying or neutering does not always serve as a ‘fix’ for any dog breed. You could see humping behavior prior to a spay/neuter and still continue to see that same bahavior after the procedure.

The best course of action is identifying the primary cause of the behavior and working with a professional to correct it. Spay or neuter may be part of a comprehensive behavioral treatment plan, but should never be anticipated as the “cure”.

6. Growth Plates

Other animals or dog breeds do not have the same types of concerns about their growth plates as Great Danes do. Great Danes are a dog who grows until they are over 24 months.

Their bones, ligaments, and tendons are all still growing and developing well into their adult years. If you were to spay or neuter your dog too early, it could lead to health issues with their growth plates closing too quickly. This also impacts their overall body, spine, or leg structure.

Another common concern with early spay or neuter of dogs is the impact it has on their feet or leg structure. This is, again, due to the hormones that are present before spaying or neutering which help with the growth and development of their bones, ligaments, and tendons.

7. Surgical Risk

Spaying or neutering Great Danes comes with the standard anesthetic or surgical risk that all surgeries come with.

Your Great Dane is so large that it sometimes has a harder time adjusting to anesthesia than other dogs. Always be sure to get routine blood testing prior to putting your female or male Great Dane under anesthesia. Speak to your vet about what blood panels they find necessary for your Great Dane to have taken. Without completing blood testing prior to your Great Dane being sedated, you run the risk of your Great Dane having blood clotting issues such as Hemophilia A, amongst others.

8. Pyometra

One common health conditions to consider for spaying or not spaying your dog is Pyometra. Pyometra is a life-threatening infection of the uterus that can occur in any un-spayed female dog.

For this reason, it is important to know the signs of this infection in female Great Danes, watch your individual dog closely, and monitor your Great Dane’s health during the duration of her remaining un spayed.

When pyometra happens, the uterus fills up with pus. In some cases, this can only be resolved with a delicate, expensive, and life-threatening surgery.

9. What is considered an early age to spay in Great Danes?

Most male and female dogs are considered to be full grown at around 12 months of age.

At this age they have completed most of their growth and development. However, most large dog breeds can take up to two years to reach their full adult size.

It is important to keep in mind that Great Danes mature slower than other dog breeds. Since other dogs grow quicker and are full grown at a younger age, Great Dane dog’s require longer time to allow their growth plates to fully develop. Spaying before 24 months is often considered ‘too young’ for Great Danes.

As the owner of a Great Dane, you are wondering about the best time to spay her. First, it’s important to understand the heat cycle and the clinical signs of estrus.

Photo Credit to Hellen at www.instagram.com/Mumukodogsquad (Picture of sweet Dakota!)

10. Female Great Dane and the Heat Cycle

What happens when the Great Dane dog goes into heat?

Generally, Great Danes come into heat twice a year, with each cycle lasting about three weeks. During this time, their bodies undergo a number of changes, including an increase in vaginal discharge and a swelling of the vulva.

Additionally, they may be more restless and vocal than usual. It is common for there to be changes in behavior and appetite during this time. They are susceptible to pregnancy for the entirety of this heat cycle, but especially on the day when they ovulate.

Should female Great Danes be spayed during their heat cycle?

We suggest waiting until your Great Dane is NOT in estrus (heat) to perform any surgical procedure.

During this time (heat cycle) female large breed dogs have an abundance of hormones. Your veterinarian will have insight into the best time to spay your female, based on the circumstances, their age, and their health.

Why is my Female Great Dane acting pregnant during her heat cycle?

Your female Great Dane has likely entered into a false pregnancy.

Do not spay your Great Dane while they are experiencing a false pregnancy or other health issues. Her nipples could fill up with milk, and Great Danes sometimes even carry around stuffed animals. Males tend to get antsy and sometimes there is excessive barking from the male counterparts.

During this 3-4 month time, you should not consider spaying your Great Dane. The only consideration for this would be that you have been given a pet health report from your veterinarian that your Great Dane is experiencing uterine infections, which is life threatening.

Why should I not spay my Great Dane during her heat cycle?

Your female Great Dane is extremely susceptible to bleeding out and other health problems during surgery if you choose to spay during her heat cycle. There is an excessive blood supply as well as raging hormones in your Great Dane. You should plan routine blood testing and ensure that you are planning your spay according to your Great Danes hormones.

In conclusion

In conclusion, you need to make the best decision for your Great Dane dog . You need to factor in her health, your lifestyle, and whether or not you plan to breed her. Talk with your veterinarian about the best time to spay your Great Dane. Use this article as a guide to ask the right questions and make an informed decision.

There are risks of spaying your Great Dane dog and there are risks of letting her stay in-tact. We hope that by outlining those risks and benefits, it can help you to make the best decision possible.

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