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My nursing dog has purple nipples and tummy bumps. Is it mastitis?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | unspayed | 2 years and 3 months old | 15 lbs

Hi, I have a first time nursing dog. The puppies were born about three weeks ago and everything seemed to be going fine, but lately she goes through periods of slight fevers and looking like she's not having a very good time. Her nipples have become purple, which I thought was from the puppies sucking on them, but tonight I noticed little pimple like things around her tummy area. Should I be alarmed?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 2nd, 2019

If you are not taking a rectal temperature then you can't say for sure she is having fevers. Many dogs will feel "hot" to the touch but their temperature internally is normal. If you want to check for fever you must take a rectal temperature.

As for the mammary glands, she may have mastitis. Without seeing at least a photo of them it is hard for me to say. I think when you have a nursing mother, it is better to be safe than sorry and have her examined by a vet. If you can get a mobile vet to come to your house that would be nice so you don't have to take mom and babies into a vet clinic. Of course, if you can't get a mobile vet you will need to take them in.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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