While it is primarily seen in nursing females during thefirst 3 to 4 weeks after delivering puppies, it can be seen in females who havent been bred. Often, your puppies can be an indication that something is off with the mom simply by how they are acting. In most cases, mastitis is caused by a bacterial infection. Trauma to the nipple or teat canal can allow bacteria to enter, traveling up into the mammary gland and resulting in infection. The dog's energy should return to normal after treatment. Mammary enlargement in dogs that are not having puppies may suggest a hormone imbalance, such as a phantom pregnancy. References. Once applied, they should be left in place for two to four hours, after which they should be removed for three to four hours before reapplying for another two to four hours. I was checking the breast tissue several times throughout the day and noticed nothing different. Cabbage compresses may also be done to decrease inflammation. This treatment is ideal, as it allows the dog to remain at home with her puppies. Mastitis in Small Animals - Reproductive System. Milk cytology. It is, after all, a problem that every breeder is going to be presented with at least one time in their breeding career. Acute mastitis symptoms may include glands that are hot and painful. When this occurs, there is an infection and it is important to seek medical help for full treatment. Caution: Olive leaf can cause digestive upset in some dogs. If they are not gaining weight adequately, they may need supplemental nutrition. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/15\/Treat-Mastitis-in-Dogs-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Treat-Mastitis-in-Dogs-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/15\/Treat-Mastitis-in-Dogs-Step-1.jpg\/aid8069282-v4-728px-Treat-Mastitis-in-Dogs-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"