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Why does my puppy have a small knot where the umbilical cord was?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | 0 lbs

Where the umbilical cord is attached to the puppies is there usually a small knot?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Makenzie Kurth, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 15th, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! There can be a small “outie” for a few days but this could also be an umbilical hernia. This is a small hole in the body wall at the area where the belly button is. A little peice of intestine or abdominal fat pokes through to cause the bulge. It feels soft and squishy and you may be able to “poke it back in” for lack of a better term. This is not considered painful or especially dangerous but it is something we keep an eye on throughout puppyhood. If it’s still pretty decent sized, we generally just sew the small hole closed at the time of spay. Mention it to the vet at her first puppy check up. Obviously if it gets hard, painful, red, bigger, or Shadow has any other concerning signs, head into the vet sooner.

Best of luck to you and Shadow!

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Jenny, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on July 20th, 2017
Depending on where it is located and how old she is can affect what it is. Dogs have a belly button like we do. In some, the umbilicus does not close completely and you get a small hernia. This needs to repaired with surgery. If she is older and it is located elsewhere it can be a tumor. Your vet can determine the difference and see what is needed next.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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