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My dog's nipple has brownish-red discharge. What's going on?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua (Smooth Coat) | Female | 2 lbs

My chihuahua has brownish red discharge coming out of her nipple. She is about 3 to 4 years old She has 4 nipples filled Only one nipple has the red liquid the other 3 have just cloudy liquid

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on March 16th, 2020

Hi and thanks for your request. The one with red liquid may be affected by a mastitis, which is an inflammation/infection of the mammary gland.
A clinical examination at your local veterinarian is essential to confirm these clinical suspicions and treat appropriately. Antibiotics may be needed.
Other care recommended for the bitch may include hydration, warm compresses using towels or cabbage leaves, and frequent expression of milk from the infected gland by hand. This alleviates discomfort and swelling while also encouraging blood flow. Hand-milking should be performed every six hours.
Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. If this answer was helpful please let us know, this will be used to improve our service!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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