What would you call a small umbilical hernia? A friend is considering buying an adult dog who has an umbilical hernia. This is a medium size breed (vizla) and the hernia is about an inch in diameter and 1/2 inch high - would you class this as a small hernia or do you think this is likely to require an op? Obviously a vet visit would be in order if he bought the dog, but some advice beforehand would be good :-)

Would not think it would require an operation but the size is not what would decide that it is what it contains, if it is just fat no problem if it is internal items like a loop of intestine then it will need an op. Ask for a check up first if there is concern, it does depend on what plans your friend has for this dog.

Sounds about the size of my Ellie's (she's a Cavalier), and she's never had any trouble with it. Be a little careful with vets - most of the vets who have seen Ellie over the years have just said to keep an eye on it, which of course I do, it's just a fatty one in her case but of course you have to keep an eye on it for any signs of strangulated bowel getting involved. But I have had encountered one or two vets who are totally obsessed with the things and don't seem to understand that if she's had no trouble in 7 years, I am not going to put her through an op for no good reason. :-)