Is This Normal? Finder · Skin, ears and eyes

My puppy's face is swollen. Is it an emergency?

By Dr. Steve Pelton, DVM

The short answer

A puffy face, hives or swelling around the eyes right after a vaccine is an allergic reaction, and that means go now. A swollen face that comes on by itself in a young puppy, often with swollen glands under the jaw, can be juvenile cellulitis. It's rare, but call your vet right away, because it needs prompt treatment.

Why it happens

After a shot, swelling means the body overreacted to the vaccine. Without a shot, a young puppy's immune system can occasionally overreact on its own and swell the face and glands.

Which door?

GO NOWIt's right after a shot.
CALL TODAYOtherwise, especially with swollen glands under the jaw.

When to call

Tick what fits and see which door you're at.

GO NOWFace swelling, hives, vomiting or collapse after a shot
CALL TODAYSudden face swelling with lumps under the jaw: call right away
GO NOWAny swelling with trouble breathing

Your door: WATCHWATCH

Nothing ticked and he's bright, playful, eating and drinking? Keep an eye on him, jot down what you see, and call in the daytime if it doesn't settle.

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.