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My dog has a lump after rabies shot. Is it normal and will it go away?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Female | unspayed | 4 months and 5 days old | 30 lbs

My dog has a lump after her snti rabbies injection. The site of the lump is on shoulder. It’s has been 2 weeks. Will it go away? How long? What should I do?

5 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on January 12th, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Belle is SOOO cute!

I have had a lump form at the site of the Rabies vaccine in some of my patients as well. It is a local pyogranulomatous reaction that is non-painful. It is harmless and will go away. It can take a month or more in some animals. You do not need to do anything expect monitor it.

I hope this helps and I wish you and Belle the best!

8Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Published on February 26th, 2020
The rabies vaccine can cause a lump at the site of injection. This lump typically resolves on its own in several weeks. See your veterinarian if if gets bigger, causes pain or does not begin to resolve in the next week or two.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Jenny, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on March 20th, 2018
Vaccines and other injections can cause a local reaction at the injection site. Most do go away on their own. A general rule is if it stays longer than 3 months or doubles in size then it should be evaluated to see if surgery is warranted
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on May 2nd, 2017
It is quite common for a lump to appear where a vaccine was given, including a rabies vaccine. This is a localized reaction of immune system activity, and it should resolve in a few weeks. I would keep an eye on this lump on Pepper, and if it hasn't resolved in three weeks or gets bigger, I would have her seen by a vet again.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Laura Johnson VMD
Veterinarian
Published on June 16th, 2018
Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

Yes, Luna should be fine. It isn't uncommon for a pyogranulomatous reaction to occur at the site of vaccination. This forms a painless lump in the subcutaneous tissue. It should resolve on it's own in a few months. I most commonly see if with the Rabies vaccine.

Have a great day!
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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