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False pregnancy is a normal condition in bitches that have not been bred and where a breeding has been attempted, but didn't take. This occurs because the body, not knowing whether conception will take place, prepares for pregnancy with every heat cycle. Progesterone, which is necessary for the preparation of the uterine lining and milk producing breast tissue, has a short phase in animals that cycle monthly, but in dogs it is longer, even when conception has occurred. Since the hormones and their phases are the same as in pregnancy, the bitch will act as if she were pregnant, showing unusual behavior - either more aggressive or more loving - and more maternal behavior - making a nest, and gathering and mothering inanimate objects.
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