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My dog's lip is swollen but she's acting normal. Should I worry?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female | spayed | 3 years and 3 months old | 57 lbs

Hi- part of my dogs lip is swollen. Not pawing or itching. Seems to be acting ok, but still has me worried. We do have a second dog so could be from playing but not sure if I need to worry about this. First noticed a couple hours ago. Still eating, drinking, and playing. Thanks!

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 30th, 2019

Poor girl. Acute swelling like this usually indicates that your pet was recently bit by an insect that caused a localized inflammatory response. Try applying a ice pack to the area to help with the swelling. If it is still present or seems to be spreading to the rest of the face and neck area especially, then Kona needs to be seen by a vet right away for treatment (steroids + antihistamines). However, if it remains isolated to the cheek, then Kona will likely be able to recover from this well.

I hope that your pet Kona recover well soon! Best of luck and take care.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH
Veterinarian
Published on July 26th, 2018
Hi there and thanks for posting!

Sorry to hear about the swollen lip. Swelling around the lips, muzzle, or mouth can be caused by a number of problems. Dental disease, oral tumors, or certain toxins can be causes as well as insect stings, bites, or injury to the mouth.

It is good to hear the swelling went down and is back to normal. I would say if you are concerned or if the swelling comes back, I would recommend seeing her veterinarian for an exam.

I hope this helps and thanks again for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA
Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist
Published on October 18th, 2017
Hi there! I agree that seems swollen, and almost looks like a little pocket of fluid in front in the second picture. I have seen bug bite/ stings cause this type of swelling. Also tooth root abscess, infection from chewing on something sharp, bit by another dog, etc. I would warm compress the area tonight and have her examined by veterinarian tomorrow if the swelling is still there. Of course if it gets much worse tonight an emergency clinic would be appropriate. Good luck and I hope he improves quickly!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Ana M, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on October 19th, 2020
Thank you for submitting your question regarding Kona. I recommend that she sees her veterinarian. While there can be a variety of reasons for swelling on the face, a tooth root abscess is most common. The roots of her molars and premolars are very large and extend upwards. A swelling below the eye is frequently seen with an infection of one of these roots. The veterinarian will examine her and determine if this is likely. If so, she will need to go under anesthesia. X-rays will be taken of her mouth to confirm an infected tooth and then it would likely be extracted. I hope this information helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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