Vaginitis in Dogs

What is vaginitis?

Vaginitis is an inflammation of the vagina or vestibule (the area between the vulva and the vagina). It can appear in any female dog, spayed or intact, and at any age. Even dogs under one year of age can be affected for unknown reasons, and it often resolves after their first heat cycle. Male dogs are often attracted to females with vaginitis.

What causes vaginitis?

There are many causes of vaginitis, including:

• Prepubertal (sexually immature) vagina
• Urinary tract infections
• Vaginal trauma (including mating)
• Foreign bodies
• Urine or fecal contamination of the vulva
• Ectopic (abnormally situated) ureter
• Urinary incontinence
• Vaginal tumors
• Infection – viral or bacterial (especially Brucellosis)
• Vaginal hematomas (bruises) or abscesses (pockets of pus)
• Anatomical abnormalities

Sometimes a cause of vaginitis can’t be found. This is common in puppy vaginitis – a condition that occurs in puppies before they reach sexual maturity.

What are the clinical signs of vaginitis in dogs?

The most common clinical signs of vaginitis include:

• Urinating more often
• Licking the vaginal area
• Vaginal discharges of mucus, pus, or blood (rarely)
• Scooting or rubbing of the vaginal area
• Red and swollen appearance

How is vaginitis diagnosed?

Diagnosis is usually based on medical history and clinical signs. Diagnostic tests can include:

• Blood and urine tests (which are often normal)
• Urine culture and antibiotic sensitivity tests
• Vaginal cultures and vaginoscopy (looking inside the vagina with a camera)
• Vaginal cytology studies (examining cells under a microscope)
• Ultrasound or contrast X-rays may help rule out anatomic abnormalities

How is vaginitis treated?

Treatment is based on the specific cause of your dog's condition. Many pets receive antibiotics based on sensitivity testing or the source location of the problem, although antibiotic treatment can affect the normal bacterial flora in the vagina. Cleaning the area around the vulva with a gentle cleanser is often advised, but vaginal douches are generally not recommended. Your veterinarian will develop a treatment plan for your dog. 

What is the prognosis for a dog diagnosed with vaginitis?

Most cases of vaginitis respond well to medical treatment. Many dogs return to normal within two to three weeks of starting treatment. In most cases, when a dog develops vaginitis before puberty, it resolves after the first heat cycle and further treatment is not needed. 

In chronic cases or in dogs with anatomical abnormalities, the prognosis depends on the severity and duration of the condition. Surgery may be recommended in severe or complicated cases.