Discovering that your bitch has been accidentally mated can be alarming, but don’t panic. A “knot” or “tie” is a normal part of canine mating and, while it increases the chance of pregnancy, it does not guarantee your dog will become pregnant.
If you discover a mating in progress, do not try to pull the dogs apart. This can cause injury to both dogs. Instead, keep them calm and allow them to separate naturally.
Is My Dog Pregnant?
Unfortunately, there’s no way to know immediately.
Pregnancy can be confirmed by ultrasound approximately 21 days after mating, allowing you to make an informed decision about the next steps. In most cases, we recommend waiting until pregnancy has been confirmed before pursuing treatment.
If She Is Pregnant, What Are My Options?
1. Spey Surgery
This involves the surgical removal of the ovaries and uterus, including the pregnancy.
Pros
- Permanent solution
- Prevents future accidental matings
- Eliminates the risk of uterine infections (pyometra)
Cons
- Your dog will no longer be able to be bred from in the future
- Requires a surgical procedure and recovery period
2. Mis-mating Injection
A medical treatment involving two injections given exactly 24 hours apart. Treatment must be started before day 45 of pregnancy and is approximately 95% effective.
Pros
- Preserves future breeding potential
- Avoids surgery
Cons
- Approximately 2.5 times more expensive than spey surgery
- Requires strict timing and follow-up appointments
- There is a small risk of uterine infection, so monitoring is important
- Not 100% effective
When Should You Contact Your Vet?
Contact your veterinarian if:
- You know or suspect an accidental mating has occurred
- You’re unsure when the mating happened
- Your bitch is young, older, or has existing health concerns
- You would like to discuss pregnancy prevention or termination options
- You are considering speying
The earlier we know about the situation, the more options we can discuss with you.
Need Advice?
If your bitch has had an unexpected mating, our team is here to help. Give your nearest Vet Services Hawke’s Bay clinic a call to discuss your options and plan the best next steps for your dog.
