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My puppy's stomach is big and hard after eating. Should I worry?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Female | unspayed | 15 days old

My puppy has a really big stomach she eats but not that much for her to have such a big stomach is that something I should be worried about? And also after I feed her, her stomach gets as hard as a rock is that normal?

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 3rd, 2017

If she is acting normal otherwise than it might just be that her stomach is full from the feeding. She could also have a parasite causing her stomach to be enlarged. Have a vet take a look at her to determine if she needs treatment. She may need to be dewormed with a broad spectrum dewormer.

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1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Ana M, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 10th, 2019

    Thank you for submitting your question regarding Nala. I recommend that she sees a veterinarian. This is important to do any time a nee pet is acquired. A fecal test will be performed and deworming medication given. Parasites are the most common cause of a large belly in young. If you only see her belly enlarge after eating though this may be normal. Puppies are so small that food can physically enlarge the stomach after a meal. I hope this information helps!

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 29th, 2018

    Poor guy! A big tummiy can be caused by a lot of things but in a puppy it is suspectd taht he may have a large intestinal parasite load. I would suggest getting him dewormed and having his stool tested for worms through your vet. Another possible cause is a rare congential abnormality, which can be detected usually with an abdominal x-ray. I hope that your pet Bebo doesn't have any kind of congential problem and just has a large worm load causing his abnormally large belly. Best wishes and take care!

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Sarah Derksen, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 21st, 2017

    Hi. Without more history and signalment, it is hard to say. It could be excess food, parasites, foreign body, muscle loss/changes, or many more. You will need her to go to your veterinarian tomorrow and have radiographs and a fecal check. Good luck.

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