Why Is My Female Dog’s Private Area Swollen
If you notice that your female dog’s private area is swollen, there are a number of potential causes. The good news is that it’s unlikely to be serious. However, it’s still important to get her checked out by a vet as soon as possible—especially if you think she could have an infection or STD.
Your dog may have a vaginal infection.
If your dog has a vaginal infection, she may have soreness or irritation on the skin that covers her private area. You might also see discharge and bleeding. Other symptoms of a vaginal infection include:
- Pain when urinating
- Pain while walking
It is important to note that if your dog’s reproductive organs are swollen, you should take her to the vet immediately because this could be a sign of another serious health issue (like an ovarian cyst). That said, here are some things you can do at home to help treat her condition:
She may be going through her heat cycle.
If your dog is in heat, she may have a swollen vulva that can range from slightly larger than normal to very enlarged. You may also see discharge from her vulva or her private area. These symptoms typically last for about three weeks before going away and repeating the cycle again.
During this time, she’ll be receptive to male dogs who will often be seen sniffing around your female’s genitalia and attempting to mount her. Don’t worry too much though—this is all perfectly normal!
She may have a uterine infection.
If your dog has a swollen vagina and is not showing any other signs of illness, she may have a uterine infection.
A uterine infection can be caused by any number of things, including:
- A bacterial or yeast infection
- A parasite that’s moved into the uterus
- Hormonal imbalances or hormone-related cancers
The first thing you should do is call your vet to come out, especially if you are worried about any of the most serious causes, as these can lead to death if left untreated for too long
The first thing you should do is call your vet to come out, especially if you are worried about any of the most serious causes, as these can lead to death if left untreated for too long. Your vet will examine your dog and may prescribe a treatment plan. It’s best to follow the instructions of your vet exactly so that she gets better as quickly and safely as possible!
If money is an issue, ask what payment options are available at the time of service—you may be able to work out a payment plan or make payments over time. If this isn’t an option for whatever reason, try asking other pet owners in your area who they take their pets to see if they know any vets who are less expensive.
If your dog’s private area is swollen and she has a fever, call your vet immediately.
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Call the vet to come out if you are worried about any of the most serious causes, as these can lead to death if left untreated for too long.
