Reproductive

Reproductive health in Bouviers has made significant improvements over the years. In 2004 it was reported that litter and puppy problems occurred in 33.5% of the litters. The problems included stillborn puppies and fading puppies. Today, pyometra is the most common reproductive problem and there is no report of problems with litters.

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  • What Is Dystocia?

    A condition where a female dog cannot deliver puppies normally due to obstruction, weak contractions, oversized puppies, or maternal pelvic issues.

    Early Signs

    - Strong contractions for more than 30 minutes with no puppy delivered

    - More than 2 hours between puppies

    - Green/black discharge before the first puppy

    - Excessive panting, distress, or exhaustion

    - Visible stuck puppy in the birth canal

    Treatment

    - Immediate veterinary evaluation

    - Manual assistance if safe

    - Oxytocin only when appropriate (never with obstruction)

    - Emergency C‑section for obstructive or prolonged labor

    Notes for Bouviers

    - Large fetal size and broad shoulders increase risk

    - First‑time mothers and older females are more prone

    - Have an emergency plan before whelping

    Helpful Links

    - MSD Veterinary Manual – Dystocia

    - Veteris – Dystocia in Dogs

  • What is Pyometra?

    Pyometra is the infection in the uterus (womb) of a female dog. It is caused by hormonal changes in the body that fill the uterus with pus.

    Early Signs

    - Lethargy, fever, vomiting

    - Increased thirst and urination

    - Vaginal discharge (open pyometra)

    - Distended abdomen (closed pyometra)

    - Rapid decline in energy

    Treatment

    - Emergency spay surgery (gold standard)

    - IV fluids, antibiotics, and stabilization

    - Medical management only in rare breeding‑program cases

    Notes for Bouviers

    - Risk increases with age and repeated heat cycles

    - Can progress rapidly — treat as a life‑threatening emergency

    Helpful Links

    - MSD Veterinary Manual – Pyometra

    - Dogster – Reproductive Problems in Dogs

  • Early Signs

    - Failure to tie

    - Low libido

    - Abnormal semen analysis (low count, poor motility)

    - Testicular asymmetry or swelling

    Treatment

    - Semen evaluation

    - Treat infections or prostate disease

    - Hormonal testing

    - Adjust breeding timing and management

    Notes for Bouviers

    - Large‑breed males may have subtle prostate enlargement with age

    - Semen collection and freezing can help preserve lines

    Helpful Links

    - MDPI Veterinary Sciences – Causes of Infertility in Dogs

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