Why is my female dog licking her private area, stiff, and shivering?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | unspayed
My dog seems to be uncomfortable, walking stiffly and licking her private area frequently and occasionally shivering. Is it possible it's a yeast infection?
4 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on March 8th, 2018
It sounds like Honey is in pain or has an infection. Since she is licking her vulva frequently and walking stiffly there is a possibility that she is suffering from a urinary tract infection or, especially since she was not spayed, a uterine infection, which is potentially life threatening. Please take her to your vet for an exam as a urinary tract infection can potentially turn into a serious kidney infection , and a uterine infection is potentially fatal. A UTI is usually treated with a course of antibiotics, and a uterine infection is usually treated by surgery, ie the pus-filled uterus and ovaries are removed and your dog will also be prescribed pain medicine and antibiotics.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on March 16th, 2020
That looks pretty abnormal. I recommend Sandy be examined by the veterinarian. She likely needs either antibiotics or antifungal medications. This could be related to something like a bacterial infection, a yeast infection or a hormonal imbalance. She also needs to wear an elizabethan collar at all times to prevent any licking. Do be aware that sometimes a bladder infection can present this way as well. I hope they figure out the issue quickly.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on September 12th, 2017
To me the vulva does not seem swollen, it seem normal, but of course it may be more swollen that it usually is. in such a case it could be due to a slight infection, either in the urinary tract or vagina. for now i would recommend just monitoring it, if it gets worse then you should take her to the vet to get it checked.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on December 27th, 2016
Her vagina could be swollen due to an infection, a UTI, or going into heat if she isn't spayed. I would take her her into the vet first thing in the morning. Doing a physical exam, blood tests, and a urinalysis, the vet can diagnose what is causing a swollen vagina, and can prescribe a treatment for it.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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