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My puppy has a belly bump. Should I worry about a hernia or cancer?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | 3 months and 23 days old | 25 lbs

My puppy has the bump in his belly and I don't know what to do! I'm just scared that she might have cancer and it might be malignant! Please help!!

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4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Rachel

Veterinarian

Published on June 24th, 2017

You are right to be concerned - all new lumps and bumps should be evaluated thoroughly! It is a little difficult to tell from the photo, but this lump is in the location of her umbilicus, and it is suspicious for an umbilical hernia. It could also be some other type of a mass, but the only way to know for sure is to have it evaluated by your vet. Your vet can determine whether or not it is a hernia and/or take a needle sample to determine the type of cells. If it is a hernia, they can usually be routinely fixed during her spay procedure.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Elva Ma DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 7th, 2018

    Hello, and thank you for your question. A bump right on the middle of the belly could be an umbilical hernia. This is a small hole in the belly button, that fat or abdominal contents can protrude through. It could also be related to a skin infection, a mass or a cyst. I would suggest getting Carly checked at the vet to verify what the bump is. If it is an umbilical hernia, your vet may suggest monitoring it until it is time for her to be spayed (around 6 months old), so that they can repair the hole at the same time. If it is a mass, they can perform a fine needle aspirate to check what it is composed of. In the meantime, if she is bothered by the lump, you can place an e-collar (cone) on her head to prevent her from further irritating the area until you can get to a vet. I hope this helps, and that Carly is happy and healthy!

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 20th, 2017

    It could be an umbilical hernia. When your puppy is neutered, it can be repaired at the same time. This bump could also be a cyst or a benign tumor. Without seeing it in person, I can't say for certain, but I would recommend having your puppy seen by a vet to diagnose what is causing the bump. The vet can discuss treatment options as well.

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    Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 14th, 2018

    Yes, this indeed could be an umbilical hernia. You can easily check this by gently pressing on the lump. If it disappears into the abdomen, it is a hernia. This should be fixed when your puppy is neutered. Keep an eye on it. There is a possibility that intestines can get trapped in the hernia sac which can turn into a life threatening condition. If you cannot push it into the abdomen it should be examined by a veterinarian, as it could be an umbilical abscess or a mass.

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