If you’ve noticed an unusual lump or bulge on your dog’s belly, you might be wondering if it could be a hernia. The good news is that with proper understanding and timely treatment, most hernias in dogs can be successfully managed.
Whether your dog was born with a hernia or developed one later in life, knowing what to look for and when to seek help can make all the difference. If you suspect your dog has a hernia, don’t wait. Schedule a dog hernia removal at Poplar View Pet Hospital today.
What is a dog hernia?
A dog hernia occurs when abdominal contents, such as fat, tissue, or abdominal organs, push through a weak spot or tear in the muscle wall. Think of it like a small opening in a fence where something from one side pushes through to the other. While some hernias may seem harmless, others can become serious if abdominal organs become trapped or lose blood supply.
What causes a dog hernia?
- Congenital defects: Many puppies are born with hernias due to incomplete closure of body wall openings during development. These are common around the area where the umbilical cord was attached.
- Trauma or injury: Accidents, falls, or a car crash can cause tears in the muscle wall. The force from these injuries creates openings where abdominal contents can push through.
- Excessive strain: Activities that increase abdominal pressure, like difficult pregnancies, chronic coughing, or straining during bowel movements, can weaken muscle walls. Over time, this pressure can cause hernias to develop.
- Genetic predisposition: Certain breeds are more prone to specific dog hernia types due to their body structure or inherited weaknesses. Breeds like Basenjis, Cairn Terriers, and English Bulldogs have higher hernia risks.
- Post-surgical complications: Previous surgeries can sometimes leave weak spots in the abdominal wall. If surgical sites don’t heal properly, hernias may develop at the incision location.
5 Types of Dog Hernias
Umbilical Hernias
Umbilical hernias are the most common type found in puppies and appear as a soft bulge near the belly button. They occur when the opening where the umbilical cord attached doesn’t close completely after birth. Small umbilical hernias often contain only fat and may close on their own as the puppy grows. However, larger ones that allow abdominal organs to protrude require surgical correction to prevent complications.
Inguinal Hernias
Inguinal hernias develop in the groin area where the inner thigh meets the body wall. They’re more common in female dogs, especially those that are pregnant or middle-aged. This type of dog hernia can be particularly dangerous because they may contain vital abdominal organs. You’ll notice swelling in one or both sides of the groin that may change size when your dog moves or lies down.
Diaphragmatic Hernias
Diaphragmatic hernias occur when there’s a tear in the muscle separating the chest and abdominal cavities. This allows abdominal organs to move into the chest cavity, potentially compressing the lungs and heart. They are often caused by traumatic injuries and can be life-threatening. Dogs with diaphragmatic hernias may show difficulty breathing, weakness, or shock symptoms.
Perineal Hernias
Perineal hernias appear near the anus when pelvic muscles weaken or separate. They’re most common in older, unneutered male dogs and can cause difficulty defecating or urinating. The dog hernia appears as a swelling on one or both sides of the anus. Without treatment, they can lead to serious complications, including bladder displacement or intestinal problems.
Hiatal Hernias
Hiatal hernias occur when part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm near where the esophagus passes through. These are less common but can cause symptoms like regurgitation, difficulty swallowing, or excessive drooling. Some dogs are born with this condition, while others develop it due to trauma. Chinese Shar-Peis and English Bulldogs are particularly prone to this type of dog hernia.
Can a dog live with a hernia?
While some small hernias may not immediately threaten your dog’s life, living with an untreated hernia carries significant risks. Even hernias that seem stable can become strangulated, cutting off blood supply to trapped organs and creating a life-threatening emergency. The constant pressure and movement of abdominal contents through the hernia can also cause it to enlarge over time, making eventual surgery more complex. Most veterinarians recommend surgical repair as the safest long-term solution, as it eliminates the risk of complications and allows your dog to return to normal activities without restrictions.
6 Signs You Need Dog Hernia Removal
- The lump is growing larger: If you notice the bulge increasing in size over days or weeks, surgical intervention is necessary. Growing hernias indicate weakening muscle walls that won’t improve without repair.
- Your dog shows signs of pain: Crying when the area is touched, reluctance to move, or aggressive behavior when approached indicates discomfort. Pain suggests the hernia is causing significant problems that need addressing.
- The growth feels hard or hot: A firm, warm dog hernia that can’t be pushed back in suggests strangulation has occurred. This emergency situation requires immediate surgery to save trapped tissue.
- Vomiting or loss of appetite: These symptoms may indicate intestinal obstruction or other serious complications. Dogs with these signs need prompt evaluation and likely surgical treatment.
- Difficulty breathing: Hernias affecting the diaphragm can compromise lung function and oxygen levels. Breathing problems always warrant emergency veterinary care and surgical correction.
- Changes in bathroom habits: Inability to urinate or defecate normally, especially with perineal hernias, requires surgical intervention. These functions are essential and can’t be compromised long-term.
4 Benefits of Dog Hernia Surgery
Elimination of Emergency Risk
Dog hernia surgery permanently repairs the muscle wall defect, eliminating the risk of sudden strangulation or organ entrapment. Once it is surgically corrected, you won’t need to worry about rushing to an emergency vet in the middle of the night due to complications. This preventive care approach is far safer and less stressful than waiting for a crisis to occur.
Improved Quality of Life
After successful hernia repair, dogs experience immediate relief and can return to their normal activities. You’ll likely notice your dog becoming more playful, energetic, and willing to exercise. This improved comfort level translates to better sleep, increased appetite, and a happier disposition overall.
Prevention of Organ Damage
Surgical repair prevents abdominal organs from becoming trapped, twisted, or damaged within the hernia sac. When organs get stuck in the sac, they can lose their blood supply and begin to die, requiring extensive emergency surgery or even organ removal. By addressing the dog hernia proactively, you protect these vital organs from irreversible damage.
Cost-Effective Long-Term Solution
While surgery requires an upfront investment, it’s far more cost-effective than managing potential emergencies or complications. Emergency surgeries typically cost significantly more than planned procedures and often involve longer recovery times and additional complications. Regular monitoring, repeated vet visits, and the eventual emergency treatment of a complicated hernia can quickly exceed the cost of early surgical intervention.
Conclusion
Understanding what a dog hernia is empowers you to make informed decisions about your pet’s health. From recognizing early warning signs to knowing when surgical intervention is necessary, being proactive can prevent serious complications and ensure your dog lives a comfortable, active life.
Don’t let a hernia compromise your dog’s quality of life. Schedule an appointment with us at Poplar View Pet Hospital to discuss your dog’s hernia treatment options. For more pet health tips and updates, follow us on Facebook and Instagram , where we share valuable information to keep your furry family members healthy and happy.
