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Why is my 6-month-old puppy's stomach hard and swollen after eating?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Golden Retriever | Female | 1 year old | 32 lbs

My 6 month old puppy has a very swollen, hard as a rock stomach. She did eat a large meal about 2 hours ago but this has never happened before

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Stacey Anstaett, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 14th, 2019

Awww, she’s a cutie!! If she’s still acting normally... seems comfortable, is energetic and ready to play if prompted, and hasn’t seemed nauseated or like she’s trying to vomit, I would just give her some time. She may have eaten really quickly and have some gas buildup or something of that nature. If she starts retching like she wants to vomit, or if she seems very dumpy and lethargic, take her to the vet. You can check her heart rate as well. Her heart rate at rest should not be faster than 130 beats per minute. If it is faster than that when she seems calm, take her in. Thanks for asking Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

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