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Chihuahua attacked: severe bruising appeared days later. Vet SOS?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Female | spayed | 5 years and 8 months old | 5 lbs

My chihuahua was attacked by a large dog 3 days ago. The other dog owner and I were able to break up the fight very quickly so it was more like a one time bite to my dog. At first, she only has 2 small surface cuts on one of her legs so I did not take her to the vet. Now, three days later, her cuts are fine however she has severe bruising on her chest / rib cage. The bruising did not show up like this until last night. I just moved and still don’t have a job but can take her to a vet if true SOS

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1 Answer

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Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 9th, 2019

I am sorry to hear about Chichi. Sometimes bruising is not immediately obvious. If Chichi is acting lethargic, having trouble breathing, is painful, is not eating or having vomiting, then an exam at the vet would be recommended. If she seems completely fine, I would check her gums to ensure they are pink and check her regularly the next few days for new bruises, pale gums, or the appearance of pinpoint red spots on her gums or skin which can be a sign of a bleeding disorder. If anything like this develops she should see the vet as well.

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