I think my puppy has a hernia. Are hernias bad for dogs and how can I confirm that it is a hernia?

Original Question: My dog had puppies and one of them has a soft ball spot on her belly and it looks like an umbilical hernia. Is this bad? - Annmarie

I think my puppy has a hernia. Are hernias bad for dogs and how can I confirm that it is a hernia? Nov 7, 2018

Hi Annmarie,

Thanks for submitting your question.

You would have to have your primary veterinarian confirm this, but it is typical to see a semi-circular bald area in the centre of the abdomen where the umbilical cord entered your dog in utero. That would be normal in any dog. If a hernia is present then you would be able to feel a protrusion or lump under the skin where the material is herniating through the hole in the muscle layer that failed to close over. It’s the presence of the hole that is the hernia. The area being bald alone does not confirm that a hernia is present. I encourage you to watch our video, “General Info About Umbilical Hernias and Treatment for Puppies, Dogs and Cats” for more information on this topic.

Your veterinarian would be able to determine this in a physical examination and consultation with you and your dog.

Good luck.

Dr. Clayton Greenway

Summary
I think my puppy has a hernia. Are hernias bad for dogs and how can I confirm that it is a hernia?
Article Name
I think my puppy has a hernia. Are hernias bad for dogs and how can I confirm that it is a hernia?
Description
If a hernia is present then you would be able to feel a protrusion or lump under the skin where the material is herniating through the hole in the muscle layer that failed to close over. It's the presence of the hole that is the hernia.
Author
Publisher Name
Healthcare for Pets
Publisher Logo

Disclaimer: healthcareforpets.com and its team of veterinarians and clinicians do not endorse any products, services, or recommended advice. All advice presented by our veterinarians, clinicians, tools, resources, etc is not meant to replace a regular physical exam and consultation with your primary veterinarian or other clinicians. We always encourage you to seek medical advice from your regular veterinarian.

Related Q&A

  • Why is my dog eating poop?
  • Answered by: Paul
  • Mar 9, 2023
  • Why is my dog licking so much?
  • Answered by: Paul
  • Mar 8, 2023
  • Why is my dog sneezing?
  • Answered by: Paul
  • Mar 7, 2023
  • Why is my dog drooling?
  • Answered by: Paul
  • Mar 6, 2023