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My nursing dog has a red bump and high temp. Could it be mastitis?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Goldendoodle | Female | unspayed | 3 years and 7 months old | 50 lbs

My dog had 11 puppies on 11/17. Been doing well and the puppies as well, but today i noticed a light red bump in-between one of her mammary glands. Almost resembles a hickey. Its about marble sized. She doesnt seem to act like nursing hurts her at all. I've taken her tempts today and they were 102.5, 103.1, 102.9. Her teets arent dark red or purple.Should i be worried about mastitis with that? I hate to lug her and the whole litter of 9 to a clinic unless its really a concern as of now.

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1 Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on November 19th, 2019

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Skye. Congrats on the puppies, I hope they are doing well! Nursing is a bit painful, and it may be an injury from nursing. Her temperature of 102.5 is on the high side of normal, and the 103.1 is a bit worrying. Keep taking her temperature. If it continues around 103, this spot gets worse, the area gets hard or firm, there is pus or discharge from her teats, or the teat itself become discolored, have her seen by a vet. I hope this helps!

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