What Is an Umbilical Hernia in Dogs? Causes & Treatment

Umbilical hernias are fairly common in dogs, especially puppies, occurring when the abdominal wall at the belly button (umbilicus) doesn't fully close after birth. This leaves an opening that can let fat or even organs push through, creating a noticeable bulge. Airedale Terrier puppies and several other breeds carry a hereditary risk, although any dog can develop this condition.

Recognizing Umbilical Hernia Signs in Dogs

Umbilical hernias typically fall into two categories:

• Simple hernias present as soft swells at the navel. These lumps might vary in size and may sometimes diminish, with generally no discomfort or illness shown by the dog.
• Complex hernias happen when abdominal tissue—like intestines—push through the opening and can get trapped, leading to pain and other signs.

Signs of complicated umbilical hernia include:

• Pain or tenderness around the belly button
• Warmth, swelling, or redness in that spot
• Loss of appetite
• Vomiting
• Weakness, lethargy, or depression

If you notice swelling or unusual lumps near your dog's belly button along with any of these symptoms, it's crucial to contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.

What Causes Umbilical Hernias in Dogs?

Most umbilical hernias stem from congenital issues, where the umbilical ring doesn't close properly during fetal development, creating an abdominal muscle weakness at the navel that permits tissue to bulge out. Occasionally, trauma during delivery—such as excessive pulling on the umbilical cord—can cause a hernia, although this is rarer.

Dog Breeds Prone to Umbilical Hernias

While every dog can develop an umbilical hernia, some breeds are known to be more susceptible, likely due to genetics. In the U.S., breeds with a higher risk include:

• Airedale Terrier puppies
• Basenji puppies
• Pekingese puppies
• English Bulldog puppies
• Weimaraner puppies
• Pointer puppies
• Beagle puppies

Responsible breeders in the U.S. generally avoid breeding dogs with umbilical hernias to prevent passing on this condition, encouraging healthy lines and better pet populations.

How Veterinarians Diagnose Umbilical Hernias

A veterinarian will usually identify an umbilical hernia by examining and gently feeling the swollen area near the belly button. If the lump is soft and can be pushed back in easily, it's likely a simple case. For suspected complications, imaging tools like X-rays or abdominal ultrasounds help assess if organs are trapped and guide treatment.

Available Treatments for Umbilical Hernias

In puppies, small umbilical hernias sometimes close without intervention by about four to six months of age, so your veterinarian might recommend simply watching them if there are no symptoms. Conversely, larger or persistent hernias that cause issues often require surgery.

Surgery involves repositioning any protruding tissue inside the abdomen and closing the muscle defect. Many vets perform hernia repairs alongside neutering or spaying procedures, making this a convenient time to reduce anesthesia risks and costs.

Neutering or spaying dogs with hernias is important to help reduce genetic transmission of this condition—an approach widely endorsed by U.S. veterinary professionals promoting responsible pet ownership.

Summary

Umbilical hernias in dogs are usually congenital, presenting as lumps or bulges by the navel. While many cases are harmless and may heal with time, attentive pet owners should monitor their pups for any signs of complication and consult veterinarians promptly. Surgical correction typically has excellent outcomes, and neutering helps prevent hernias from being inherited.