Dog Bleeding After Spay: What’s Normal and What’s Not

Our Question of the Week:

My dog was spayed about ten days ago and is spotting. Is she OK?

Allan Edwards

Our Answer:

Hello and thanks for your email. You wrote that your dog was spayed about 10 days ago and is now spotting, and you wonder if she is OK.

Some dogs can have a small amount of bleeding after they are spayed. It should be a very small amount and stop normally on the first 3 days after the procedure.

I’d recommend that you ensure that there is no other evidence of bleeding, like blood in urine, blood in bowel movements, bleeding gums, or bruising on skin that would suggest a bleeding problem. I’d also recommend that you look at her gum color to ensure it is nice and pink. She should also have a normal attitude and energy level. As she is still bleeding after 10 days, the safest thing to do would be to have your vet check her to make sure everything is fine.

Best of luck!

Dr. Debra

More About Bleeding After Spay Surgery

Spaying is a routine surgical procedure that offers long-term health benefits for female dogs, including preventing unwanted pregnancies and reducing the risk of uterine infections and certain cancers. However, it’s not uncommon for pet parents to feel alarmed when they notice their dog bleeding after spay surgery. Is it normal? Should you be concerned? Let’s break down what’s expected, what’s not, and how to ensure your dog heals comfortably and safely.

What to Expect After Spay Surgery

Spaying involves the removal of the ovaries and uterus through an abdominal incision. After surgery, your dog may experience:

These symptoms typically resolve within 24–72 hours. Minimal bleeding—such as a few drops of blood-tinged fluid—is often part of the normal healing process.

When Is Bleeding a Cause for Concern?

While light spotting can be normal, excessive or persistent bleeding may signal a complication. Contact your veterinarian if you notice:

These symptoms could indicate:

Ovarian Remnant Syndrome: A Hidden Cause of Bleeding

In rare cases, a small piece of ovarian tissue may be left behind during surgery. This tissue can continue to produce hormones, causing your dog to show signs of heat, including spotting or bleeding, even after being spayed. Diagnosis may involve:

Treatment typically requires a second surgery to remove the remaining tissue.

Other Medical Conditions That May Cause Bleeding

If your dog is bleeding from her vulva or incision site post-spay, other potential causes include:

Your vet may recommend bloodwork, urinalysis, or imaging to rule out these conditions.

How to Support Your Dog’s Recovery

Proper post-operative care is essential to prevent complications. Here’s how to help your dog heal:

Avoid bathing your dog or letting her swim until the incision is fully healed.

Can Pet Insurance Help with Post-Spay Complications?

Standard pet insurance plans typically cover unexpected medical issues, including complications from spay surgery. If your dog experiences abnormal bleeding, your policy may reimburse:

However, routine spay surgery itself is often not covered unless included in a wellness plan. Wellness plans may also help with:

Always review your policy’s terms and exclusions before scheduling surgery.