What You Need to Know About Shih Tzu Hernias

A Shih Tzu hernia can be a serious health issue that requires prompt attention.

Shih Tzus are prone to hernias due to their narrow abdominal cavity and weak abdominal muscles.

A hernia occurs when an organ or tissue protrudes through a weakened area in the abdominal wall.

The most common type of hernia in Shih Tzus is an umbilical hernia, which occurs near the belly button.

Symptoms of a hernia may include a visible lump or bulge, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

Hernias are a common congenital condition, affecting around 1 in 500 puppies.

Most hernias are discovered at a puppy's first checks or vaccinations without any associated or preceding signs of ill-health.

A hernia is a hole in the muscle wall of the tummy (abdomen) that allows the abdominal contents to squeeze through into a space under the skin.

Hernias typically arise in specific locations, with the commonest kind in puppies being umbilical hernias, located near a puppy's belly button.

Umbilical hernias result from the muscle failing to close over the area where the umbilical cord entered the body.

Some breeds appear more susceptible to hernias, suggesting a possible genetic element to this condition.

It's advisable not to breed from a dog with a hernia.

A hernia in your Shih Tzu can be a serious issue, so it's essential to know the symptoms to catch it early.

If you notice a small swelling in your dog's groin area, don't worry, it might just be a reducible hernia that's nothing to worry about.

However, if you can't push the swelling back in, you have a problem, and it's crucial to seek veterinary attention immediately.

A non-reducible hernia can become strangulated, blocking food from passing through, and if left untreated, it can lead to a range of severe symptoms, including cramps, fever, refusal to eat, and lethargy.

The affected area will become swollen and painful, and if the blood supply is blocked, the dog may develop liver and/or kidney failure, which can be fatal if not treated promptly.

A fresh viewpoint: What Does a Flea Infestation Look like on a Dog

A hernia in a dog can be a concerning issue, and it's essential to know the symptoms and diagnosis process. If you notice a small swelling in the groin area, it might be a reducible hernia, which is usually not a cause for concern.

However, if you can't push the swelling back in, it could be a sign of a non-reducible hernia, which can lead to serious complications. A strangulated hernia can cause food to get stuck, and if left untreated, it can lead to a range of problems.

Pain, cramps, fever, and lethargy are all potential symptoms of a hernia that has become strangulated. If your dog is experiencing these symptoms, it's crucial to seek veterinary attention right away.

In some cases, a hernia can become infected, leading to bacterial toxins and metabolic waste affecting the organs. If left untreated, this can cause liver and/or kidney failure, which can be fatal within 24 to 48 hours.

Here are some key signs of a hernia to look out for:

Diagnosing hernias in puppies is often a straightforward process. A soft swelling under the skin in a characteristic hernia location is a strong indicator of an external hernia.

Your vet will check for an underlying hole in the muscle wall to confirm the diagnosis. They'll also check if the hernia can be "reduced" by squeezing the contents back into the tummy with gentle pressure.

In some cases, an ultrasound or X-ray may be necessary to diagnose an internal hernia or assess the severity of the problem. These tests are non-invasive but may require your puppy to be sedated.

Most hernias, including those in Shih Tzus, will need surgery to close the hole in the muscle. Surgery is the only treatment for an inguinal hernia, and it's usually a minor operation.

Some small hernias may require no treatment at all, as the muscle will close as the puppy grows. However, most hernias will need surgery, even if the puppy is currently unaffected by their hernia, to prevent more serious problems later in life.

The typical cost of surgery is between $150-$400, but it can be less if done at the same time as a spay or neuter. Expect to pay much less if you can combine the procedures.

If your puppy has a large hernia, or one that involves the intestines or other internal organs, surgery may be necessary at an earlier age, or as an emergency, to prevent serious complications.

Umbilical hernias are the most common kind in puppies and are located near the belly button.

They result from the muscle failing to close over the area where the umbilical cord entered the body.

Less frequently, hernias are found in the groin, known as inguinal hernias, or next to the bottom, known as perineal hernias.

These types of hernias are more common in older dogs and can be uncomfortable or cause problems with a dog's ability to toilet properly.

The rarest kind of hernias involve the diaphragm and can be more difficult to diagnose as they are less obvious from outside.