my dog gorgeous...

Question
my Chihuahua gorgeous, recently had her cycle a few weeks ago (like 2 or 3), and lately her nipple look kind of swollen or infected..im scared something may be wrong with her but I'm not too sure.  Is it normal for them to do that? i don't think they bug her, because she loves her tummy being rubbed and i can do so without her crying.

Answer
Hi Stephanie,

Enlarged nipples are a normal part of a dog's estrus, or heat cycle. The nipples can become slightly enlarged in anticipation of milk production associated with pregnancy. Your may notice that your dog's vulva also appears inflamed and swollen. These physical changes normally regress if the bitch does not become pregnant, usually in 2-3 weeks.

Some female dogs experience a false pregnancy, also called "Pseudocyesis". During a false pregnancy, a dog's body essentially thinks she is pregnant. All the hormones are present; only the puppies are missing.
Usually, the condition goes away on it's own within 3 weeks.

It is important to remember that any touching of the mammary tissue is what stimulates milk production so it is important to minimize touching the area. Dogs can produce milk during a false pregnancy. If your dog is licking herself, she may need an Elizabethan collar to minimize stimulation.

If you don't see the swelling going away within the next two week, you should have your dog examined by your vet. If this does indeed turn out to be a false pregnancy, it is best to wait until the false pregnancy is over and then spay her to prevent future episodes.

I hope I've been a help.
Best of luck,

Patti