I have had my bitch scanned today by a very reliable sheep scanner who has said unfortunately no puppies.  She was idexx tested and mated optimum time to a proven dog.  She missed last time to a different dog (also idexx tested).  I am going back for another scan next week as she is only day 27 today but I don't hold out much hope.  Any similar stories to share?

some years ago similar story , 2 matings 2 different dogs no puppies 3 time to the last dog and whooppee she took , i did have her swabbed for infection prior to the last mating and she was on Ab's before she was mated, so you never know

Thanks Newfienook.  As regards trying a 3rd time, not sure if I can handle the disappointment of her missing again though its early days I know!  I was convinced this time that she was as she was so different to after every other season.  She always has a mild phantom exhibiting weight gain, mammary development and stroppy behaviour but this time she was so different.  "Soft" and calm temperament, vulva still swollen, clear discharge and very slight sickness (very greedy dog).  All these things are completely different to her "normal" phantoms.  The weight gain and mammary development came in much later than normal too, started at around 3 weeks instead of almost immediately after her season.

I still can't believe she hasn't taken, bummer!

same thing happened with my girl twice idex tested good ties, scanned and no puppies , i still can't decide if to try again with a different dog, like you i don't know if i can go through the disapointment again, 

I had the same as you Zajak, maiden bitch, idexx tested, one of the few bitches I'd definately have put money on as being pregnant with all the signs. Two textbook matings to a proven dog. I'm thinking she reabsorbed. Will try again but not looking forward to the 4 hour drive and hope it doesn't rain stair rods the whole way like it did before.

There has been a few bitches missing this year, different breeds. Mine has missed going to try again. It does gut you. Had three scans just to make sure.

Yes totally agree with everyone.  My vet does think Herpes could be a factor as she developed a spot on her vulva around 2 weeks after mating.  If this were the case then she could have likely absorbed the litter I suppose.  Although I will never know for sure what happened it would give me a reason to try for a 3rd time if I thought herpes could be a factor.  I could titre test her for herpes levels I suppose, any comments?  Its not something I have come across before and have heard conflicting opinions about herpes vaccs.