Is This Normal? Finder · Body
My puppy has a bump at his belly button. What is it?
By Dr. Steve Pelton, DVM
The short answer
A small, soft bump at the belly button is usually an umbilical hernia, a little gap where the cord was with a bit of fat poking through. Small ones may close by 3 to 4 months, and ones that don't are often fixed during the spay or neuter. Show your vet, who'll check it at every visit.
Why it happens
Where the umbilical cord went in, the belly wall sometimes doesn't close all the way, and a bit of fat pokes through. It only gets urgent if something gets stuck in the gap.
Which door?
WATCHA small, soft bump is often normal, but show your vet.
GO NOWIt's hard, painful, red or won't push back in.
When to call
Tick what fits and see which door you're at.
Under 16 weeks, a toy breed, or not done with his shots? Move everything one door closer to GO NOW.
GO NOW means: Head to your vet, if they're open and can see him right away, or to the nearest emergency clinic. Call on the way so they're ready for you.
Not sure which door you're at? That's a call. Call your vet.
Worried right now? Check the Three Doors list, from most urgent down, and stop at the first door that fits.
Is this an emergency?General education, not veterinary advice. Your vet's plan for your puppy comes first.