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My spayed dog is spotting blood from her vagina. Should I worry?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female | spayed | 80 lbs

I just noticed my female dog is spotting from her vagina. She was spayed over a year ago before I adopted her.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Makenzie Kurth, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 2nd, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. If there are no other signs of heat (swollen vulva, swollen teats), then I am concerned for a urinary tract infection. Take Molly and a sample of her urine in to the vet. If there ARE signs that she is in heat, talk to your vet about testing for an ovarian remnant (a few ovary cells left in the body can be enough to trigger a heat sometimes). Best wishes to you and Molly!

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    Answered By Jenny, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 9th, 2017

    I would first get a Urine sample checked to see if there is a bladder infection causes the bloody discharge. With that swelling I would also have your vet check a hormone panel to see if there is remaining ovary tissue left behind that is causing these signs if a heat cycle. I would not thick a scratch would cause that amount of edema

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If Molly is not spayed, I would have her examined by a vet ASAP. It is possible there are issues such as a urinary infection, pyometra (infection of the uterus), prolapse (if things are protruding) or even additional issues such as parasites trying to bury in the skin. Since there is also blood present, it'd be best to have her checked out. Other signs to look out for include lethargy, fever, changes in eating or drinking, additional discharge, increased urination, and cloudy/bloody urine.
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