After your dog gives birth, it’s essential that all parts of the placenta are expelled from her body. If any part of the placenta remains inside, it's called a retained placenta or retained afterbirth. This condition can lead to serious health risks if not treated quickly. Early diagnosis and treatment by a veterinarian are critical for your dog’s safety.
Signs of a Retained Placenta
It might not be obvious right away if a piece of placenta has been retained after birth. That’s why it’s important to closely monitor your dog in the hours and days following delivery. Watch for the following signs:
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Greenish vaginal discharge lasting more than 24 hours after birth
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Foul-smelling discharge
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Fever (elevated body temperature)
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Lethargy or general signs of pain/discomfort
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Swollen or tender abdomen
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Loss of appetite or refusal to nurse the puppies
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Heavy panting or signs of abdominal pain
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Overall signs of illness or distress
What Causes a Retained Placenta?
There are several reasons a placenta might not be fully expelled:
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Weak or incomplete uterine contractions
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The mother is overly tired or stressed during delivery
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A large litter makes it harder to push out each placenta
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A condition called uterine inertia, where the uterus stops contracting effectively
If any placental tissue is left behind, it can lead to serious infections such as acute metritis or even sepsis, both of which can be life-threatening.
How Is It Diagnosed?
If you suspect a retained placenta, your vet will ask about the birth process and perform a thorough exam. They may also recommend:
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Bloodwork to check for infection or inflammation
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Ultrasound to visualize the uterus and look for retained tissue
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X-rays, which can sometimes show abnormalities in the uterus
These tools help confirm whether placental tissue is still present so the vet can decide on the best course of treatment.
Treatment Options
Medical Treatment
If the retained tissue is caught early, your vet may be able to treat it with medication:
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Oxytocin injections to help stimulate contractions and expel the tissue
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Antibiotics to prevent or treat infection
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IV fluids and supportive care if the dog is showing signs of systemic illness
In many cases, the vet will monitor your dog to ensure the tissue has been expelled successfully.
Surgical Treatment
If medical treatment doesn’t work, or if the condition has progressed, surgery may be necessary:
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Surgical removal of the retained tissue, especially if infection has set in
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Spaying (ovariohysterectomy) to prevent future complications or in emergency situations
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Hospitalization for IV antibiotics and intensive care if acute metritis or sepsis occurs
Though surgery may sound alarming, it can be life-saving and is performed with your dog’s long-term health in mind.
When to Contact Your Veterinarian
Don’t wait. If you notice any signs of retained placenta, call your veterinarian immediately. Acting quickly gives your dog the best chance for a full recovery. Remember, the earlier the diagnosis, the better the outcome for both your dog and her new puppies.
https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/reproductive/c_dg_retained_placenta_afterbirth
