What are umbilical hernias?
It’s very common indeed for an 8 week old puppy with an umbilical hernia to show up at my clinic when coming in for their first vaccinations. The hernias are nearly always small and nothing to worry about, though it is important that owners are aware of the possible risks associated with them.
A hernia occurs when there’s a gap in the muscle, and something which should be on the inside comes outside. This is usually a small bit of fat or some peritoneum - but less commonly we can see something more serious, e.g. intestines.
Umbilical hernias affect the umbilicus (belly button), so are found in the exact location of the belly button, on the lower portion of the dog’s abdomen in the midline.
Signs and symptoms
These types of hernia are easily recognised and should be found by the vet on a pup’s first vet check, if not already identified by the breeder in the puppy’s first few weeks of life.
Visible signs of umbilical hernias in puppies
Umbilical hernias are on the outside of the body so easily visible. They show up as a small and spherical swelling which can be squishy or firm. Sometimes, it can be pushed back inside the belly button, only for it to pop back out again immediately after.
Physical symptoms and discomfort experienced by puppies with umbilical hernias
For the vast majority of pups, they’re unaware they have a hernia and they cause no signs of discomfort.
Rarely, hernias may be large or can contain organs. These larger hernias are at greater risk of strangulating i.e. the blood supply becomes compromised, and the contents of the hernia may start to die. This causes intense pain and the pup becomes very unwell, very quickly.
Diagnosis
Thankfully,the diagnosis of umbilical hernias is largely straightforward, quick and inexpensive.
How umbilical hernias in puppies are diagnosed by veterinarians
Nearly all hernias in this area are diagnosed during a routine wellness check or vaccination appointment as the vet sees and feels them. For most, no further tests are needed.
If the vet is concerned that the hernia is very large or may contain intestines, they might recommend that some imaging studies are performed.
The role of abdominal ultrasound scans in diagnosing umbilical hernias in puppies
Uncommonly, a vet will suggest an ultrasound of the hernia is undertaken, which helps identify the structures contained within it. This will help the vet to prepare the safest and most effective treatment plan.
Treatment options
There are a number of paths that can be taken, and the route you go down will depend on factors including the size and type of hernia, if it is affecting your dog, your financial situation etc.
Spontaneous closure of umbilical hernias
Very small hernias may heal over and resolve by themselves. It’s been suggested that gently pushing the contents of the hernia back into the hole each day, could improve the chances of this happening. The hope is that one day, it goes in and doesn’t come out again!
Surgical repair of umbilical hernias in puppies
Most umbilical hernias will need to be repaired via minor surgery. This is a really simple procedure, whereby the contents of the hernia are replaced within the abdomen and the small defect in the muscle is sutured closed.
To minimise the need for two general anaesthetics, many vets suggest this is done during a neutering surgery. Importantly, it’s advised that ALL dogs with this type of hernia are neutered, to prevent the genetic trait being passed on to future litters.
What’s the cost of umbilical hernia surgery in the UK?
The cost of the surgery varies and is going to depend on where you live within the UK, the size of the hernia, the size of your dog and if you’re having the surgery performed at the same time as neutering (which hugely reduces the price). Cost will range between £100-500.
Complications and risks
As with any medical issue, there’ll always be potential complications that are good to be aware of.
Potential complications from untreated umbilical hernias in puppies
The main risk would be of strangulation, which is a rare complication but can be seen in those larger hernias which contain intestines or other tissue. There can be tissue death and there’s even the risk of systemic infection and death, if left untreated.
The skin over a hernia is at slightly higher risk of injury or infection, so owners should keep a close eye out for any signs such as redness, crusting or oozing.
Risks associated with surgery for umbilical hernias in puppies
Any surgery carries risk and there is a very small risk from the anaesthetic, as well as the potential for the surgical wound to become infected or to develop a seroma (fluid swelling). Risk can be reduced by following post-op instructions e.g. strict rest and the use of a pet t-shirt or buster collar.
Prevention and breeding decisions
The best way to prevent umbilical hernias is to neuter those who have one and to breed from stock that do not have hernias in their family history.
FAQs
How serious is an umbilical hernia in a puppy?
Most hernias are not at all serious, pose little to no risk to the pup, and can be easily treated.
Rarely, hernias can pose a threat if their contents become trapped and the blood supply is blocked off.
Should I buy a puppy with an umbilical hernia?
There’s no reason why you shouldn’t buy a pup with an umbilical hernia. However, if you plan to breed your dog, it’s not advised.
If someone’s selling a puppy with an umbilical hernia, they should make prospective buyers aware of this.
How do I care for a puppy with a hernia?
The main thing you should do is to keep a close eye on the hernia to ensure it doesn’t enlarge or become red, tender or firm (where it was previously squishy). These signs can be an indication of organ entrapment.
Is it bad to breed a dog with an umbilical hernia?
Yes. This is because many hernias are inherited, and if we continue to breed these dogs, we’ll be creating more and more pups with this defect. When we choose to breed dogs and bitches, it’s vital that only the healthiest, with the best temperaments are chosen.
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