Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo
  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

My dog had stillborn pup, now sick, won't eat, hard belly mass.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | 4 lbs

My dog gabe birth yesterday morning. The pup was stillborn. She hasn't acted right. Wont eat or drink. Has a hard mass on her lower belly.. what can I do here.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on April 25th, 2018

Poor Butters! From your description, I would be very concerned that she may still have another puppy inside her, or may have a severe uterine infection or some other problem. Having a stillborn puppy is a sign that something went very wrong during the birthing process, and it's not normal for her to seem painful and not want to eat or drink.

Unfortunately, I'm afraid there is really nothing at all you can do at home to help her - this may be a life-threatening problem, and she needs immediate veterinary care. I would recommend taking her the nearest emergency clinic tonight to be seen, if possible. The veterinarian there can take x-rays to see if there is another puppy still inside her, and may need to do an emergency c-section if so.
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share

Styled arrow button