Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo
  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

Could bumps on my dog's vulva during heat cycles be canine herpes?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Boxer | Female | unspayed | 1 year and 11 months old | 161 lbs

My female dog gets a bump or two on the further outside of her vulva only during her heat cycles. They look like what a misquote bite or ingrown hair bump looks like. Could this be canine herpes?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on August 24th, 2019

Canine herpes does not show as bumps around the vulva like human herpes can do. Canine herpes causes a fatal hemorrhagic disease in puppies less than two to three weeks old. Mera doesn't have canine herpes.
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 24th, 2019

    They typically do not show any symptoms. You may see abortion or stillbirths if the dog is pregnant, and there could be occasional genital sore but it won't happen every time the dog is in heat. That's one reason why I think it's unlikely Mera has it.

    Vote Icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share

Styled arrow button