What are umbilical hernia in dogs

An umbilical hernia is a protrusion (outward bulging) of the abdominal lining, abdominal fat, or a portion of abdominal organ(s) through the area around the umbilicus or belly button. The umbilicus in dogs is located on their underside just below the ribcage.  

Before birth, the umbilical blood vessels pass through the umbilical ring (an opening in the abdominal muscles) to provide nourishment to the developing fetus. An umbilical hernia is caused by the incomplete closure of the umbilical ring after birth.  

The hernia generally appears as a soft swelling beneath the skin, and it often bulges when the puppy is standing, barking, crying, or straining.   

Some hernias are reducible, meaning that the bulging can be pushed back into the abdomen while others are non-reducible indicating at least partial obstruction of the herniated contents to the opening.  

An umbilical hernia in dogs can vary in size; small hernias may close spontaneously (without treatment) by age 3 to 4 months. Umbilical hernias that do not close may require surgery, especially if a portion of an intestinal organ sticks out through it. Umbilical hernias are usually painless. The exact cause is unknown, but a genetic predisposition is a possibility.    



Written by Dr. Mariella Roberts, Veterinary Surgeon, Animal Trust Vets CIC | Published March 2025 | Review date March 2027 | This advice is for UK pets only and is not a replacement for seeing a vet