Hernias in dogs

What is a hernia in a dog?

A hernia is when one part of the body - either an organ or some tissue - protrudes through an opening or gap into another part. This can create a lump or swelling under the surface of the skin which can differ in size dependent on the severity of the condition, the way your dog is positioned and how much your dog has eaten.

Types of hernias in dogs

There are four main types of hernia that could affect your dog:

• Umbilical Hernia: a small opening at the belly button, often congenital (present from birth). This type of hernia is most commonly seen in puppies.
• Inguinal Hernia: a growth in the groin, which can trap abdominal contents. They’re most common in small-breed, middle-aged females, sometimes linked to pregnancy or obesity.
• Perineal Hernia: weakness in the muscles around the anus, allowing pelvic or abdominal organs to bulge under the skin. Unneutered older male dogs are most at risk.
• Diaphragmatic Hernia: a tear in the diaphragm, usually from trauma, allowing organs to move into the chest.

Less common types of dog hernias include pericardial-peritoneal hernias (a birth defect affecting the sac around the heart) and scrotal hernias. They are considered to be quite rare in dogs but are worth being aware of too.

What causes a hernia?

There are a number of ways a Hernia can present itself, depending on the type/location. Hernias in dogs are either present at birth or occur afterwards as a result of injury, illness or strain. 

The cause will often depend on the type of hernia, but there are a few common reasons they happen:

1. Genetic weakness
   Some dogs are simply born with weaker spots in their abdominal wall or diaphragm, which means there’s a greater chance of a hernia developing. Certain breeds, like Airedale Terriers, Pekingese, and Dachshunds, are known to be more prone to these weaknesses.
2. Injury or trauma
   Accidents such as being hit by a car or falling from a height can cause muscles or the diaphragm to tear. With diaphragmatic hernias, this tear can let organs like the stomach or liver move into the chest cavity. Sometimes this happens straight after the injury, while other times it can take weeks or even months for signs to appear.
3. Increased pressure inside the tummy
   Anything that puts extra strain on your dog’s abdominal area can make a hernia more likely. This might include pregnancy, carrying extra weight, straining due to constipation or trouble urinating, or long-term coughing from conditions like bronchitis or tracheal collapse.
4. Prostate problems
   In unneutered male dogs, an enlarged or diseased prostate can cause straining, which in turn may weaken the muscles and lead to a perineal hernia. Some experts also suspect that relaxin, a hormone produced by the prostate, can weaken nearby connective tissue and contribute to these hernias.
5. Age-related muscle changes
   As dogs get older, their muscles naturally lose some tone and strength. In senior pets, this can make them more vulnerable to hernias, even without any obvious injury.

How is a hernia diagnosed?

A hernia can usually be identified if you find a lump in either the groin or abdomen, on one or both sides of their body. They’re sometimes more difficult to identify in larger or longer haired dog breeds, since the hernia isn’t always visible.

Any new lump or swelling on your dog’s body should be checked by a vet to be on the safe side, since hernias have the potential to get worse over time. The vet will usually identify a hernia by doing a physical examination, and they may also decide to do an ultrasound or X-ray to check what’s inside the hernia.

Other symptoms of hernias in dogs to look out for include:

• Swelling in the affected area
• Pain
• Vomiting
• Bloody urine
• Difficulty passing urine
• Disinterest in food
• Depression and lethargy

Important: Sometimes the hernia can trap vital organs and become an emergency. You should seek veterinary help right away if your dog is showing the following signs:

• Indications of sudden severe pain
• Persistent vomiting
• Bloated or hard abdomen
• Inability to urinate or defecate
• Collapse

How are dog hernias treated?

If your vet confirms that your dog does, indeed, have a hernia, then it will need surgery to correct. The procedure will involve a general anaesthetic, and the opening in the tissue which is damaged will need to be closed up. You vet will be able to advise you on the recovery process, but your dog will definitely need plenty of rest and cuddles!

Caring for your dog after hernia surgery

Depending on your dog’s age, breed, and the type and placement of the surgery, recovery times will vary. Your vet will be able to advise you on the exact post-op care that your dog or puppy needs, but it will typically include:

• Restricted activity for several weeks
• Pain relief and antibiotics if prescribed
• Follow-up checks to monitor healing
• Plenty of cuddles and TLC!

With the right treatment and care, most dogs recover well from hernia surgery. However, sometimes recurrence does occur, and this risk is higher for perineal and inguinal hernias. 

You’ll be made aware of any risks ahead of your pet’s procedure, but you should always talk to your vet if you have any questions or concerns. 

Conclusion

While hernias in dogs can sound worrying, many are treatable - especially if spotted early. Knowing the signs, from an unusual lump to changes in appetite or behaviour, means you can get your dog checked by a vet before things get more serious.

Every case is different, so your vet will guide you on the best treatment, whether that’s monitoring a small, harmless hernia or arranging surgery to fix a more serious one. With prompt care, most dogs go on to live happy, comfortable lives after recovery.

And of course, plenty of rest, love, and a few extra cuddles can make all the difference while they’re healing.

Related content

Dog breed-specific health problems
Basic first aid for dogs
All dog health advice