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My pit bull's stomach is bloated, but she's not pregnant. What's wrong?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pit Bull Terrier | Female | 100 lbs

I rescued a pit bull 2 months ago. I assumed she was pregnant because of her bloated stomach. But her puppies should have come out by now. Im beginning to think she isnt pregnant at all. I took this picture on march 9th. I thought she was at least four weeks into her pregnancy.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

Veterinarian

Published on April 30th, 2017

Homegirl definitely has fairly prominent abdominal distension! Dogs' gestation typically lasts 62-65 days, so I suppose it is still possible that she may be nearing the end of a pregnancy. However, if she has not had any changes to her mammary glands (I did not see any noticeable change in the photo from March), it is unlikely that she is approaching the end of a pregnancy. Abdominal distension this prominent in the absence of pregnancy could be due to fluid (a sign of liver failure, right sided heart failure, infection, etc.) or a benign or malignant mass, all of which can be quite severe. At this point, Homegirl should be examined by a vet urgently to evaluate her overall health and may need to take x-rays or perform an ultrasound of her abdomen to get to the bottom of this issue. I hope that all goes well!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on April 30th, 2017
The typical gestation length of a dog is 58-68 days, so it could still be possible she is pregnant if it's been shorter than 68 days. I'm not sure if she has been getting bigger over the time you've had her, but she could also be experiencing a false pregnancy. With a false pregnancy, dogs show all the symptoms of being pregnant but will not have puppies. I would have Homegirl seen by a vet. The vet can diagnose if she is pregnant or not. If she isn't pregnant, I would recommend having her spayed.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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