Puppies can get hernias, just as people can. They can be born with them or they can be the result of an injury. A hernia is a tear in the wall of a muscle that allows the internal organs or fatty tissue normally found behind the muscles in the abdomen to push through.

There is good news & bad news when it comes to hernias. The bad news is, depending on the type, they can be lifethreatening. The good news is that they are completely treatable!

There are 5 common types of hernias seen in dogs.

Umbilical: This is the most common type of hernia. These are congenital & most commonly seen in puppies. If your pooch has an umbilical hernia you will notice that the belly button has been replaced by a squishy protrusion. They can be surgically fixed when your puppy is spayed or neutered. Failure to repair the hernia, if large enough, can lead to serious complications.
Inguinal: These hernias occur in the “groin” area, where the inner fold of the rear leg attaches to the body wall. These can range in size from small to large, & if the opening is large enough, portions of the intestine, the bladder, or the uterus can become trapped within the hernia, causing a lifethreatening problem. This type is considered congenital & often affects middleaged female dogs, especially those who are pregnant. These should be surgically fixed immediately to avoid complications.
Diaphragmatic: The muscle that separates the abdominal organs from your dog’s heart & lungs is called the diaphragm A hole in the diaphragm allows the internal organs to enter the chest cavity, making it difficult for your dog to breath. These hernias can either be congenital or the result of an injury; most commonly, being hit by a car.
Perineal: When the muscles of the pelvis tear, abdominal contents enter the area adjacent to the anus. Some breeds are predisposed to this type of hernia, & it commonly occurs in unneutered male dogs over the age of 5. (Bottom line: Be sure to neuter your dog!)
Hiatal: This type of hernia develops when a portion of the stomach pushes into the diaphragm, where the esophagus joins the stomach. Hiatal hernias can be congenital or the result of trauma.
Since a hernia pushes fat or internal organs through the muscles of the abdomen, the hernia often looks like a protruding, soft, bubblelike mass.

Additionally, your pet may have the following symptoms: Coughing, Anorexia (not eating), Drooling, Shortness of breath, Vomiting

Your vet will tailor your dog’s treatment to the type of hernia suspected. In many situations, the hernia will be visible. In situations where the hernia is internal, your veterinarian might recommend an xray to evaluate the condition. In most situations, your vet will recommend surgery to fix the hernia & appropriate medications/treatment, depending on the type of hernia & cause.

If your dog must undergo surgery to have the hernia repaired, your vet will recommend preanesthetic tests to ensure your dog is healthy & can tolerate the anesthetic procedure.

There is no real way to prevent a hernia. Most hernias are either congenital or occur as a result of an injury or other healthrelated issue. Spaying or neutering your dog can have the greatest impact on preventing several types of hernias. Additionally many hernia repairs can take place when your dog is spayed or neutered.