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My dog has a soft lump after a vaccine shot. Is it normal or serious?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 3 months and 27 days old

Pocholo was given a vaccine last December 26,2016. Just today, I noticed a small soft lump on his skin at the back where the injection was administered. It's like a cyst with water inside because it's very soft. Is Pocholo be okay and if I will apply a hot compress, will it be gone?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 6th, 2017

That is a very common occurrence after vaccination. The vaccine can cause a localized reaction and it should resolve on its own within a month. If it persists, seems larger, or bothers him that have your vet take a look at it.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Jennifer Ladd, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on January 6th, 2017
A hot compress is a great idea. I would do this twice daily. Massaging the area is also very helpful. It is likely an immune response to the adjuvant in the vaccine. This is not the pathogen that the vaccine is designed to protect against but rather the solution that holds the vaccine. Please monitor closely.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on March 3rd, 2019
The lump is likely to be caused by a tissue reaction due to the injection.
If that is the case the lump will resolve, and will not have any consequence.
If it persists more than two weeks or if it gets bigger a check up would be needed (as it could be infected).

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!
3Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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