My dog's nipple is swollen. What can I do before seeing a vet?

I am sorry to hear about Archie. Possible causes for this could include infection, abscess, or tumor. Unfortunately none of these causes are really treatable with at home care. If the area is growing rapidly, is painful or hot to the touch, or your dog is lethargic/not eating/uncomfortable then these are signs he should be seen right away. If he seems unbothered by the area and it isn't growing rapidly, you could try applying warm compresses for 10 minutes a few times a day. If it is an abscess this may help it come to a head and drain. Clean around the nipple well with a mild soap or antiseptic such as Hibiclens in case there is a superficial infection and apply a topical antibiotic such as Polysporin. If the area isn't getting smaller or is increasing in size, then vet care is needed. You may consider seeing if there is a low-cost vet clinic in your area. Some Humane Societies/Animal Protection Leagues/etc. have low-cost clinics for those who cannot afford a full service veterinarian. You can get more ideas on paying for vet care at http://m.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/trouble_affording_veterinary_care.html

He may have been licking his nipple which would have possibly made it swell. However it is also possible that this is hormonal problem or even an infection. If the nipple keeps growing, or turns red or hot or starts discharging fluid, then you should take your dog to a veterinarian for an exam.

I would continue to monitor is for any sudden changes. It should definitely get checked out by a vet in the next few days. Possible causes for this include mammary tumors, tumors not related to the mammary system, infection, or mammary hyperplasia. If it gets suddenly bigger or there is any discharge, I would see a vet sooner.

Nigeria's teat looks very inflamed! This can be due to trauma or infection. You can try applying a cool (not cold) compress to the area for about 5 minutes twice daily and make sure she is not licking or causing further trauma. If it does not resume a normal appearance within 24 hours, I recommend to take her to the vet. Watch for any lethargy, discharge, further swelling or pain as this likely indicates and infection and should be seen. I hope it this helps and feel free to post any further questions.

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.

It is possibly local skin fold infection or mild inflammation around the nipple. Please, clean the area with antiseptic skin solution (ideally containing 4% chlorhexidine, for example Hibiclens) twice a day for 4-5 days. If it does not get better, you will need to take Lady to your local vets for a check.

There are a couple of things that could be wrong with your dog. She could be pregnant causing her swollen nipples and making her feel ill. It could be that she has mammary tumors also causing these symptoms. If she had puppies recently, she could have mastitis (an infection of the mammary glands). Finally, she could have a pyometra which is an infection of the uterus that is fatal without treatment. Because both mastitis and a pyometra are fatal without treatment, and since I can't see her in person to rule them out, I think it's best that she sees a vet right away. The vet can diagnose what is causing these symptoms and the best way to treat her. Please take her into a vet now. Best of luck.