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Why is my senior dog's stomach distended and she's losing weight?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Female | unspayed | 70 lbs

Hi, my 9 year old Doberman Mastiff mix has an extended stomach, and seems to have lost some weight. Otherwise, she is happy and eating, doesnt appear to be in pain when her abdomen is pressed on, and is moving around as normal. She just finished a heat, but we are almost positive it is not pregnancy.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 31st, 2019

This is worrisome - a distended abdomen could be a sign that there is free fluid present in the abdomen secondary to something like liver disease or even cancer. An organ could be enlarged as well. There are some diseases that can cause weakness of the muscles of the abdomen that could lead it to appear enlarged as well. If you are almost but not 100% positive that she is not pregnant of course that could be another cause as well. I would recommend having Sadie examined by your veterinarian - they may be able to tell what is going on by palpating or feeling her abdomen or they may recommend other testing like x-rays or blood work.

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