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My dog's face is swollen. Is it an emergency? What should I do?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | unspayed

I woke up this morning to my dogs face swollen really bad what do I do

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 28th, 2018

A sudden swollen face is usuaally caused by some allergy, either an insect bite or an environmental allergy, or could also be a rattle snake bite.
Check for oozing little wounds, there would be a little blood oozing but not coagulating. If you find those on the head, your dog likely was bitten by a snake and needs to be seen by a vet right away.
If your dog has breathing problems, vomits or is lethargic, he should also be seen by a veterinarian right away.
If he is happy, eats and drinks, you can observe the swelling and it should go down within 24 hours. Of course you can also take him to the vet if he is not in distress. The vet will give him an exam and likely an antihistamine and/or steroid injection.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM
Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident
Published on April 10th, 2018
Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This is likely due to an allergic reaction though other things like an infection are still possible. I recommend that you have Mercury evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. They would be able to check for these possibilities and treat accordingly. Allergic reactions are usually treated with anti-histamine drugs and corticosteroids. Good luck!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA
Veterinarian
Published on May 22nd, 2018
Poor Tyson! It looks like he is swollen around his eye as well. This could be from a horse but I am really worried about a snake bite or an allergic reaction to something else. I would strongly recommend to have your vet look at him asap. Your vet will be able to give him some meds to help with the swelling and hopefully help you figure out what happened. I hope this helps !
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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My dog's face is swollen. Is it an emergency? Should I call a vet?

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