Have you ever noticed a small, squishy bump on your puppy’s tummy, right where the belly button should be? If so, you might be looking at an umbilical hernia in your dog. While the term can be quite frightening, it’s actually not immediately dangerous when treated with the right care.
In this blog, we'll discuss everything from what an umbilical hernia in dogs is to how it's treated.
What Is an Umbilical Hernia in Dogs?
An umbilical hernia in dogs is a small bulge or swelling that appears right at your dog’s belly button. This is the spot where the umbilical cord was attached when they were born. Normally, the opening in the abdominal wall should close up after birth and as the puppy grows.
But if it doesn’t close properly, a little gap remains. This can allow soft tissue to push through and create the bump you can see or feel.
Think of it like a tiny doorway in the muscle wall that never fully shuts. Most of the time, this bump is painless and doesn’t bother your dog at all. Many mild cases of umbilical hernias in dogs can even close on their own as the puppy gets older.
However, larger hernias can be more concerning, as these don’t close and may need surgical repair. Plus, these cases may involve organs getting trapped, potentially leading to restricted blood flow, which is life-threatening.
Generally, vets classify these into two types: reducible and non-reducible hernias.
Reducible Hernia. The soft lump can be gently pushed back inside the abdomen. These are often harmless and easier to manage.
Non-Reducible Hernia. These hernias are stuck on the outside and cannot be pushed in. These cases need closer monitoring and care.
Umbilical Hernia in Puppies
It’s common for a puppy with an umbilical hernia to be diagnosed during their very first checkups. In fact, many hernias are spotted when puppies are only a few weeks old. Fortunately, most small umbilical hernias in puppies aren’t dangerous.
What Causes Umbilical Hernia in Dogs?
An umbilical hernia in dogs is generally caused by factors present during a dog's birth and early development.
Congenital Factors and Breed
Most umbilical hernias in dogs are inherited and passed down through family lines. Normally, the blood vessels pass through the umbilical ring to supply the fetus with nourishment. Due to some developmental anomalies and inherited genes, the umbilical ring can fail to close.
Certain breeds appear to be more prone to umbilical hernias. This includes dogs such as the Airedale Terrier, Basenji, Beagle, and Pekingese.
Trauma or Injury
Although uncommon, an umbilical hernia can also form from trauma. It can either happen during birth or later in life. During birth, the constant strain and traction of the umbilical cord can result in a failure of closure. Secondary umbilical hernia can also happen due to constipation and straining.
What Are the Symptoms of an Umbilical Hernia in Dogs?
The small gap creates a space for fat, fluid, or even part of some organs to bulge out.
Visible Lump. The most common sign is a soft bump or bulge on the site of the belly button. This can range in size and type.
Pain or Discomfort. Most small hernias aren’t painful. In some cases, the hernia becomes firm or tender, and dogs may react when it’s touched. Some may even show signs of abdominal pain.
Vomiting. Another sign of an umbilical hernia in dogs is vomiting, especially when other organs are involved.
Loss of Appetite. Dogs can also lose their appetite because of the pain and discomfort they feel. They might not respond well to all types of food, even their favorites.
Lethargy or Weakness. A dog with a strangulated umbilical hernia may seem unusually tired, weak, and hesitant to move. This happens because the trapped tissue can lead to pain and insufficient blood flow, which can weaken the body.
Shortness of Breath. If the hernia is large and organs are trapped, then it may affect a dog’s breathing and circulation. This is often a vet emergency.
How Do Vets Diagnose an Umbilical Hernia in Dogs?
Our vets will begin feeling the lump to see if it's reducible or non-reducible. Next, we'll measure the hernia and identify its characteristics.
If needed, we can use diagnostic imaging tools, like X-rays and ultrasounds. These can help reveal the contents and extent of the defect in the abdominal wall. From here, we can decide on the approach we’ll take.
How to Treat an Umbilical Hernia in Dogs?
Some small hernias can be left alone and simply monitored. In these situations, we may require you to keep a watchful eye at home. If the umbilical hernia in your pup is still there by the time they reach 6 months of age, then surgery might be the option.
In many cases, we recommend surgically repairing your dog’s umbilical hernia during a routine spay or neuter. What’s great about this is that your dog will only require one round of anesthesia, and the recovery time will be combined.
This saves a lot of time and comfort for you and your dog.
The procedure is done by first administering the anesthesia and shaving the skin over the swollen area. After this, the site is cleaned and sanitized. Once the site is prepared, we can begin to create an incision on the soft swelling and push the contents back into the abdominal cavity.
Next, we’ll remove any excess scar tissue around the abnormal opening. To close it, the edges of the weak spot of the abdominal wall will be stitched together. In cases where the hernias are larger, the area may be reinforced with surgical mesh.
Prognosis for Dogs With Umbilical Hernias
The good news is that the prognosis for dogs with an umbilical hernia is usually excellent. Most dogs recover fully, both for reducible and non-reducible hernias. When surgery is required, the success rate is extremely high. Once this is repaired, dogs can live normal and active lives.
When left untreated, large, non-reducible umbilical hernias can be risky. In rare cases, the tissue can become strangulated, which is life-threatening.
“Early checks can make sure your dog’s small bump is dealt with a safe and quick fix.”
- Dr. Rokas Proscevicius
Final Thoughts
Overall, umbilical hernias in dogs are highly manageable issues. With proper vet care and monitoring, the outcome is excellent. So, if you notice a small bump on their belly buttons, don’t panic, but don’t ignore it either. A vet visit is the answer.
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