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My dog's nipple is swollen and red, but vet said it's nothing?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Female | spayed | 9 years and 4 months old | 70 lbs

My 9 y/o female fixed pit bull has an extra nipple that has gotten bigger and looks swollen and red. She also has little skin tags that keep popping up. The vet today said it was nothing but I’m concerned about the nipples because it looks pretty bad

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 22nd, 2018

If you are concerned then you should get a second opinion. It is not normal for a nipple to be red and swollen. It could be infected and she may need an antibiotic to treat. Call another vet and schedule an examination.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on July 8th, 2018
The swelling is mild and the signs are quite generic at this stage. In my opinion they are unlikely to be caused by anything at this stage and will require only monitoring. Should the signs persist or deteriorate in the next 48hours, a check up would be required.

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.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Lauren Jones VMD
Veterinarian
Published on April 11th, 2019
Without examining Ellie T, I can't definitively tell you the cause of the changes in her nipples. However, given that she has not been spayed, she is at a higher risk of developing mammary gland masses. Other possible causes include infections or trauma. I recommend taking Ellie T to her vet for an exam. She may also need diagnostic testing to microscopically evaluate the cells within the abnormal/swollen tissues so that proper treatment can be started. I hope that all goes well!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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