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Is it normal for my dog's nipples to be purple after puppies?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Golden Labrador | Female | 9 months and 7 days old | 148 lbs

Is it normal for my dog, who recently had puppies to have big purple-ish boobs

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Linda G,  MS, DVM

Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 21st, 2018

Hello. The amount of blood flow to the mammary glands ( not boobs ) has increased tremendously & this can cast a bluish tinge to the tissues. As long as the tissues seem soft & pliable, there is no pain & your dog seems comfortable nursing, then this is normal. Signs of infection in the glands ( mastitis ) would be pain, erythema ( redness ), lethargy, a reluctance to nurse, possibly a loss of appetite, a red discharge from the nipples, & ulceration of the tissues. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
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Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 4th, 2018

    This could be caused by trauma, a hormonal dysregulation or an infection.
    This looks painful and needs to be examined by your veterinarian. If you can, take your dog's temperature and if it is higher than 101F or if she is lethargic, she needs to be seen today at an emergency room.
    Unfortunately, without a hands-on clinical exam it is not possible to pin point an exact cause.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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