Causes and Symptoms of Internal Bleeding in Dogs

Internal bleeding in dogs is a sign of a very serious pathology. Here we'll show you what causes bleeding in your canine companion and how to stop it.

When we decide to adopt a pet, we have to be very sure about our decision, because, in addition to our love and attention, we also have to ensure that we take care of their health. We must make sure we take them to the vet regularly, even if they have no symptoms of being sick. In today’s article, we’re going to talk about bleeding in dogs.

We’re going to give you a series of tips and recommendations for you to detect and know the symptoms that can make you think that your dog may have internal bleeding.

Causes of internal bleeding in dogs

The causes of internal bleeding in your dog can be due to different reasons, although the main cause of the bleeding is due to severe trauma. It can also be caused by a hematoma or, in the worst case, a tumor.

Due to an accident or trauma

If your dog has suffered an accident, the impact can be so great that they could even die immediately, as a consequence of the heavy bleeding. But, on other occasions, the internal bleeding may be due to damage to the liver or spleen.

That’s why if your dog suffers an accident, you should take them to be checked by the veterinarian, even if they don’t show any symptoms.

Hematoma in the abdomen

Blood accumulates inside the abdomen, forming hematomas, which are produced by the rupture of blood vessels, which are connected to the spleen. This occurs due to small trauma that aren’t very visible and difficult to detect.

Through tumors

Another cause of hemorrhage is a tumor, especially in the blood vessels. Most of these tumors are malignant and aggressive, and the German Shepherd and the Golden Retriever are the dog breeds most prone to suffer from this type of disease.

Coagulopathy

Coagulopathy, or bleeding disorder, is an alteration of the coagulation system, causing it to function incorrectly. It has its origin in the alterations of the blood vessels and is characterized by regular bleeding.

Symptoms of internal bleeding

It’s very important to always be aware of changes in your dog’s behavior, and if they suddenly get more tired than usual or don’t feel like playing anymore. 

Bleeding from orifices

You should observe to see if blood appears in your dog’s urine or stools, as rectal bleeding is very frequent in dogs. However, you should see if they’re bleeding from their nose or even their ears. If they have a problem in the mouth, throat, or lung area, then your dog might vomit blood.

Low body temperature

You should take your dog’s body temperature from time to time. The average body temperature of a dog is 37.7 to 39.1 degrees (100 to 102 Fahrenheit); if the temperature is below 98.6 Fahrenheit, then it’s a sign that the dog is sick.

White gums

If your dog’s gums are pink, it’s a symptom that they’re in good health, but if they’re whitish or pale, it’s very possible that there’s internal bleeding.

Breathing and tiredness

You should observe if your dog is breathing or panting in a sudden way, without any apparent reason. If you have noticed an alteration in the rhythm of their breathing, it’s a sign that something is wrong.

But if your dog is energetic, fun, and likes to play, and then suddenly doesn’t want to go out, or play, or doesn’t greet you enthusiastically when you get home, it may also mean that they have some internal bleeding and you didn’t realize.

How to treat bleeding in dogs

Internal bleeding is more common than you think, but it also usually resolves itself without any problems, unless it’s due to something serious. The treatment to follow will depend on the cause of the bleeding.

It’s very important to take your dog to the vet as soon as possible if you notice any of the symptoms we have explained above. The vet will probably want to carry out some tests such as an endoscopy, a blood test, or fecal analysis. But don’t panic, as this is to rule out certain illnesses or diseases.

You shouldn’t let your dog eat bones, as this could cause constipation and subsequent bleeding. You should also watch their diet and not give them your leftovers; they should have a balanced diet, to avoid canine constipation.