Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog's teats are swollen during heat. Is it a lump or normal?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 8 years and 5 months old | 4 lbs

When mammary tissues swell during heat cycle how do they feel? This has me really worried but I'm taking her to be seen in the morning. It doesn't hurt to touch. It was like that on the other side but it's gone away now & it seems to be less noticeable when I apply heat or something cold

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on June 22nd, 2017

Try not to worry too much! Mammary swelling is a generalised swelling so you'll feel it consistently over the teat, it has a firm but malleable consistency. Mammary lumps tend to be more prominent and harder.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 15th, 2017

    Depending on how far back this picture is taken this can be a swollen lymph node or a mass. When she comes out of heat and if it is still there, then have them examine it again. If it feels firm and is big enough, they can collect samples of it to properly identify it. If it only appears when she is in heat and then goes away I would not be concerned about it because it is likely a reactive lymph node or engorgement of her mammary gland. I hope everything works out well for Precious. Best wishes and take care.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 3rd, 2017

    It is normal for the mammary tissue in a female dog to become slightly swollen while they're in heat. If your vet checked it out and thought everything felt normal and fine then it should be OK. The very last mammary glands also have more pronounced fat pads around them which could make them seem a little bit larger than the other ones, but this is still very normal. Once you have her spayed you probably won't notice it at all.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dog has a painful anal gland abscess. Does he need a vet now?
Is your dog's anal gland swollen and painful? A certified vet discusses urgent care for abscesses, pain relief, and when to see your vet. Get expert guidance now!
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my pet's swollen lump with green patches not getting better?
Is your pet's swollen, green-patched infection still bothering them after treatment? A certified veterinarian discusses proper diagnosis methods like biopsy and FNA.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dog is limping, not putting weight on his leg. Is it a sprain?
Is your dog Buddy limping on his back leg? A licensed vet discusses potential causes like sprains, pulled muscles, or a CCL tear. Get expert guidance for your pet.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why does my dog have a hard swollen nose bump from his crate
Does your dog have a swollen, hard bump on its nose after being in a crate, and Benadryl didn't help? A Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach vet offers expert advice on next steps.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dog can't move, is in pain, not eating, and not peeing. Why?
Is your Yorkie showing signs of paralysis, pain, and not eating? A certified vet explains urgent symptoms like swollen belly and limb issues. Get expert guidance!
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored