Species: Dog
Condition: Umbilical Hernia
Organ System: Urogenital
A congenital anomaly in the muscle wall of the abdomen. There is an opening in at the location of the bellybutton allowing the abdominal contents (usually fat deposits) to pass through. Hernia is visible as a bulge protruding under the skin of the abdomen. Is appears at birth. Most animals have no health issues; complications with symptoms (pain, vomiting, fever) are possible in cases when parts of the intestines are trapped inside of the hernia opening. As this anomaly is hereditary, it is not recommended to breed affected dogs. The vet will recommend desexing and correct the hernia surgically at the same time. Dogs recover completely.
Breeds exposed to Umbilical Hernia – Research Reference
Alsatian Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
German Shepherd Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
German Shepherd – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Skye Terrier – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Alsatian – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Skye Terrier Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Disease Author
Dr Merliza Cabriles, Professor of Veterinary Medicine
To learn more about Umbilical Hernia or any other condition we invite you to search this website. Even better, pick up the phone and call your vet. Your vet knows your pet better than anyone else and is a fountain of information.
This information is accurate as at May 2014 and is subject to change without notice.
For Petmed Pet Health Insurance – pre-existing condition exclusion applies. Annual Benefit Limits and excess amounts vary based on pet health insurance plans.
