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What am I feeling when I press my dog's belly? Organ or hernia?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered

if i press on my dog’s belly i can feel something that kind of feels like it might be the small intestine? it doesn’t feel like a bump, i can only feel it if i press (not just by rubbing), and mostly while he’s lying on one side. what could it be?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 21st, 2019

There are many different structures in the abdomen which can sometimes be palpated, including the spleen, instestines, bladder, and kidneys. Without feeling your dog with our own hands while you are showing us the area, it is difficult to say what exactly you are feeling. You can look at the images on this site to see the anatomy of the dog: https://www.petcoach.co/article/anatomy-function-of-the-esophagus-stomach-intestines-in-dog/ https://www.petcoach.co/article/urinary-system-in-mammals-anatomy-and-function/

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    Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    It is possible to feel many of a dogs organs through the body wall if they are relaxed (and skinny) but if this is immediately under the skin it may be a hernia which requires surgical correction. I recommend you get it checked by your vet as soon as possible

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