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Causes of Dog Stillbirth
The main causes of dog stillbirth include: viral and bacterial infections, improper breeding and management, and excessive exercise. In addition, when the fetus has an abnormal position during childbirth, it can lead to a long stay in the birth canal, causing hypoxia and multiple organ failure, which can also cause fetal death. If the owner cannot determine the cause of the dog's stillbirth, they should go to the pet hospital for inspection promptly and choose either induced labor or cesarean section to remove the dead fetus depending on the situation.
- Viral and Bacterial Infections
When a dog is infected with viruses or bacteria during pregnancy, it can harm the fetus and cause death. Examples include parvovirus, herpesvirus, and bacterium infections. Therefore, it is essential to disinfect the dog's environment during pregnancy to avoid bacterial and viral threats.
- Improper Breeding and Management
Improper breeding and management, such as insufficient vitamins and minerals, can lead to the fetus dying due to a lack of adequate nutrition in the womb. However, it's also crucial to ensure balanced nutrition, neither too high nor too low. Excessive nutrition can make the dog overweight, while insufficient nutrition can lead to malnutrition, both of which are causes of stillbirth. Therefore, attention should be paid to dog feeding, such as gently massaging the dog's abdomen and feeding it about 80% full.
- Excessive Exercise
If a dog engages in vigorous exercise during pregnancy, it can easily cause fetal death. It is recommended to reduce the dog's activity range and exercise level during pregnancy.