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My puppy isn't eating, vomiting, and has a swollen anus. What's wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | unneutered | 2 months and 17 days old | 7.71 lbs

It's been 24 hours, my puppy has not eaten anything. He has not pooped and urinated. He has vomitted around 6-7 times. His part around his anus and below the anus is swollen. Can you please tell me what has happened?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on July 5th, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Shiva! The swelling around his anus is very unusual for a dog this young. It appears to be in the tissue around his anus. This can be seen in older intact male dogs and is called a perineal hernia. Stool, bladder and other abdominal contents can get stuck in the hernia. The swelling around his anus is very concerning for a puppy this young and I highly recommend having a Vet examined him as soon as possible. The vomiting may or may not be related. If he is straining to urinate or defecate then the vomiting is likely related. Other causes of vomiting/not eating are: intestinal parasites, viral (especially parvo) and bacterial infections, he ate something that is stuck and causing a blockage, ate something outside that is upsetting his stomach, food allergy/intolerance, reaction to a new food/treat/table food. I wish you and Shiva the best!

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    Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 5th, 2018

    Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! From your pictures we can not confirm why the tissue around his anus is swollen. He needs an exam and a rectal exam by a vet to tell. We can only provide advice from the pieces of information you give us. A perineal hernia is possible though VERY unusual for a puppy of this age. You need to take Siva to your Vet today. I wish you the best!

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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