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Why is my dog's nipple swollen and red during her first heat cycle?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Golden Retriever | Female | unspayed | 9 months and 15 days old

One of Luna's nipples looks like this since morning. She is having her first heat cycle. It looks slightly swollen and is red. It is not painful and has no discharge.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 22nd, 2018

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Luna. The first hear cycle will stimulate full development of her mammary chain. It is not unusual for the nipples to enlarge. The other ones will likely start to have a similar appearance. If not and this nipple stays different from the rest of her chain, then she will need to see her veterinarian. I hope this information helps!

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