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