How can I reduce my dog’s lactation? Most female dogs slowly wean as the puppies move to solid food, and the glands respond to the back pressure by producing less milk. Taking the female away is not an issue – she dries up and the glands suck up against the body again. However, in heavy milkers, it can sometimes be difficult for the glands to dry up.
Dry Up Dog’s Breast Milk: Medical Treatment
So how can I dry up my dog’s milk? Glands that won’t stop producing become painful and if we are not careful, mastitis sets in. In severe cases, prescription drug therapy (Cabergoline 1.5-5.0 µg/kg/day divided BID) may be indicated to reduce lactation. Cabergoline will block prolactin in order to stop milk production.
How to Help a Mom Dog Dry Up Milk: Homeopathic Treatment
Cabbage leaves can be used, after rinsing with water, to soothe painful glands. Cutting mom’s food and water by half for two days can help reduce lactation before returning to a full diet. You may need to milk her out by hand, but only when it’s needed to prevent infection from setting in.
If you have more questions on how to dry up dogs breast milk, call us at 800.786.4751.
LEARN MORE:
Toxic Milk Syndrome in Dogs
What is toxic milk syndrome in dogs? How do you prevent toxic milk syndrome in dogs? Dogs with toxic milk syndrome will need to be treated as soon as possible to keep her milk and puppies healthy.
Managing the Valuable Brood Dog
How do you breed a dog for the first time? What tests should be done before breeding dogs? Dr. Marty Greer, learn what to know before breeding dogs and how to improve reproductive capabilities of breeding female dogs.
Managing Females – A Dog’s First Litter
How do you help a dog give birth for the first time? We can help first-litter moms be as effective as older moms in puppy care. Learn how to help a pregnant dog and how to help your dog whelp or deliver puppies.
Vitamins for Breeding Female Dogs
How can I keep my mother dog healthy? Caring for a pregnant dog should include vitamins. Learn how prenatal vitamins for dogs and daily vitamin supplements help ensure consistently healthy puppies.
Written by: Marty Greer, DVM
Director of Veterinary Services
Marty Greer, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, has 40+ years’ experience in veterinary medicine, with special interests in canine reproduction and pediatrics. She received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Iowa State University in 1981. She’s served as Revival’s Director of Veterinary Services since 2019. In 2023, Dr. Greer was named the Westminster Kennel Club Veterinarian of the Year.