Umbilical hernias are a deficiency or “hole” in the body wall of the abdomen. This hole in the abdomen allows the protrusion of abdominal contents (i.e. fat or intestine). Properly named, this “hole” is located where the umbilicus once attached to the body. These hernias can be found on any baby mammal.
For the purpose of this article, the focus will be the umbilical hernia in puppies. It is important to note that umbilical hernias can occur in both males and females in any breed of dog. Usually, when a puppy has an umbilical hernia, fat is what will “poke out” of the hole. This will make the hernia feel a bit “soft” to the touch.
The umbilical hernia is not something that a new owner should stress over. Many umbilical hernias are small and only trap fat in the umbilical ring and cause no problems. These are called “closed” hernias and generally do not require treatment other than making sure they do not worsen (get larger).
Health Issues
It is rare that an umbilical hernia causes additional health issues or complications. As a result, Puppies with these hernias are just as healthy as those who do not have one. Nonetheless, to ensure there is not further damage, your puppy should have the hernia fixed by one year of age.
Fix your pups umbilical hernia when it is sterilized. This way, your puppy will only have to go under anesthesia once. Repairing the hernia during a spay/neuter is not difficult for the veterinarian.
In a male dog, the vet will make an additional small incision over the hernia. Then, the vet will then sew together the abdominal wall to close the hernia and then close the skin. With females, the vet will make a slightly larger incision than he/she would with the spay. The vet will repair the hernia and spay the dog before closing the incision. The additional charge for this “fix” should be minimal.
Causes
Genetics
There are two believed causes of the umbilical hernia. The first belief is that the umbilical hernia is controlled by genetics. In this case, the hernia actually appears when the puppy is still in the womb. As a puppy develops in-utero, the area where the blood vessels of the placenta (umbilical cord) enter the fetus is surrounded by a muscle. As the puppy nears birth, this muscle slowly starts to close. After the puppy is born, the muscle will grow together completely. If the closure of this muscle is delayed due to trauma or does not occur for an unknown reason, the hernia is a result.
Geneticists believe that the gene for an umbilical hernia is a recessive trait (meaning both parents must carry the gene.) The genetics of this trait becomes more complicated. Some studies point towards the result that this trait requires multiple recessive genes in order to occur. Without going too far into genetics, this means the trait can skip several generations and only one puppy in a litter may have the defect. At this time, the specific genes involved are unknown. Until scientists discover the genes associated with this trait, a true genetic connection cannot be confirmed.
Trauma
The trauma caused by the dam at birth is another cause. To sever the umbilical cord the dam chews on the cord. This can be a rather rough process. At times, the momma dog can chew the cord too close to the body or rip the umbilical cord. this trauma causes the muscles in the abdomin that surround the umblicus. The tearing and jarring motion, weakens these muscles resulting in a hernia.
Umbilical Hernias and Breeding
First and Foremost, a dog with an umbilical hernia must be fixed BEFORE the dog is impregnated. The added weight of the puppies will put stress on the dam’s abdomen which could cause the hernia to become larger and cause severe medical issues. In addition, if the hernia IS genetic, breeding a dog with this issue can raise the change of the pups having this issue. In all reality though, if a female dog has an umbilical hernia, it is best not to breed her.
If you have any additional questions, feel free to contact us. We will try to be as helpful as we can. We pride ourselves in making information available for those who own or are looking to own a dog.
About the Author
I have been working with animals for as long as I can remember. Throughout my teens, undergrad, and graduate school, I worked as a veterinary technician. From 2007 – 2011, I owned and ran a registered dog rescue where we worked with the dogs that needed rehabilitation before placement in a forever home. In addition, I have been breeding dogs since 1996. Through all of this, I have consistently researched to keep myself apprised of the latest information concerning canine health and care. As a college professor, I feel knowledge is beneficial and I try to share it when I can. I put my heart and soul into my small breeding program. God, my family, my pups, and my extended fur-family are what brings me happiness.
Disclaimer: I am not a veterinarian or a certified animal nutritionist. I am a breeder who cares for my dogs and I am willing to share my information with you. Nevertheless, you have to make your own decisions. If you choose to follow my recommendations, then that is your choice. I take no responsibility if it does not work as you want. In addition, the information on this site is not meant to diagnose or prescribe. If your pet has a medical problem, you should consult your veterinarian. The ideas and information on this site have not been endorsed or approved by the FDA. In no event shall the owners of this website be liable for any damages
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