PUPPY HEALTH · AUSSIE LIBRARY
Umbilical hernia
What it means, when care is needed and what to ask before choosing a puppy.
30 SECONDS · In a nutshell
What is an umbilical hernia?
This is an opening in the abdominal wall at the navel that has not closed completely. Fat and sometimes part of the intestine can pass through it. Not every lump has the same significance: a veterinarian must assess the opening and its contents.
The key point: not every lump has the same significance. Ask for a veterinary assessment.
Why does a lump appear at the navel?
Closed abdominal wall
The abdominal wall separates the inside of the abdomen from the tissues beneath the skin.
Opening at the navel
Fat and, in some cases, part of the intestine can pass through. The veterinarian must assess its contents.
3 MINUTES · The essentials
Monitoring and treatment
When it may be minor
A small, painless hernia containing fat may have little clinical impact. Some close during the first few months; others leave fat beneath the skin after the opening closes. Do not assume it has resolved without a check.
When treatment is needed
A persistent hernia or one allowing organs to pass through may need surgery. The veterinarian decides the appropriate timing; waiting until neutering is not always suitable. The prognosis following repair is usually excellent.
Examine the opening and its contents.
Decide on monitoring or treatment.
Record progress and any intervention.
BEFORE CHOOSING
What to ask the breeder
Ask for the veterinary assessment, expected progress and any monitoring or treatment needed. A minor hernia does not mean the puppy will have a poor quality of life; it should not be described as “just cosmetic” without assessment either. Keep the surgical report if it has been repaired.
EXPERT · Explore further
Individual health and responsible breeding
Why does family history matter?
ASHGI considers congenital hernias and delayed umbilical closure relevant to breeding. Spontaneous closure or surgical repair does not erase that history. This is distinct from the puppy’s prognosis as a companion.
From the guide to your Lunamar records
The library explains breed and health concepts. The private platform organises dogs and kennels, preserves evidence, explores pedigrees and records reproduction. Reading a guide does not create records, grant access or confirm a result.
In Health and genetics, preserve the dog’s report and review variant, copies, inheritance and page before marking it Documented. A genetic finding, clinical suspicion and diagnosis are different facts. Recording a result does not prescribe treatment or automatically approve a mating.
For an individual dog, discuss tests and family history with the veterinarian. The system does not diagnose or decide treatment, ovulation or insemination timing. Missing data must remain identified as pending information.
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Application to Lunamar features reviewed on 22 October 2026. Each reading retains the scope of its clinical sources and review dates.