Vaginitis
What is it?
Vaginitis can affect spayed or unspayed females of any age. Causes include an immature (puppy) vagina, urinary tract infections, injury (including from mating), foreign objects, urine or stool contamination, ectopic ureters, urinary incontinence, tumors, bacterial or viral infection (including brucellosis), and anatomical problems. Sometimes no cause is found, especially in puppies.
What signs should I watch for?
Signs include discharge of mucus or pus (rarely blood) from the vulva, licking the area, urinating more often, scooting or rubbing, and redness or swelling. Male dogs are often attracted to her. Otherwise, most affected dogs seem healthy.
How is it diagnosed and treated?
Diagnosis is based on the history and exam, and may include blood and urine tests, urine culture, vaginal culture and cytology, a camera exam of the vagina, and ultrasound or X-rays to look for anatomical problems. Treatment depends on the cause and may include antibiotics and gentle cleaning around the vulva; douches are generally not recommended.
Can it be prevented, and what's the outlook?
- Most cases respond well and many dogs are back to normal in two to three weeks.
- Puppy vaginitis usually resolves after the first heat cycle.
- Chronic cases or those with anatomical problems may need surgery.
Reviewed by the Adler Veterinary Hospital veterinary team, October 2026.
Female dogs of any age, especially puppies
Who's at risk:
Discharge from the vulva, licking, frequent urination, scooting
Main signs:
Schedule a visit soon
Urgency:
When to call a vet right away
- Vaginal discharge with pus or blood
- Urinating more often
- Scooting or rubbing the area
- Red, swollen vulva
- Constant licking of the area
Not sure whether it can wait? Call us anyway. Our team can help you decide.
Source:
Related conditions
Vaginal Hyperplasia
Pregnancy Nutrition
Ectopic Ureters