How to Treat Your Dog’s Hygroma: A Hopeful Guide for Caring Dog Moms

Posted by Ben Blecha, Certified Prosthetist-Orthotist

09/10/2024

How to Treat Your Dog’s Hygroma: A Hopeful Guide for Caring Dog Moms

Is your beloved dog dealing with a hygroma? Don’t worry—you’re not alone, and there’s plenty of hope for getting them back to their happy, tail-wagging self! Hygromas are quite common, especially in our larger furry friends like German Shepherds, Labradors, Great Danes, and Mastiffs. The good news is that with a little TLC and the right tools, you can treat most hygromas right at home!

What Exactly is a Hygroma?

Think of a hygroma as a fluid-filled bubble that develops due to repeated pressure or minor trauma over a bony area, like your dog’s elbow. It might start off small and soft, but if left untreated, it can grow larger and become firmer over time. While hygromas are usually painless, they can become a problem if they get infected. But don’t worry—catching it early and giving it the right care can make a world of difference!

Why Do Hygromas Happen?

Hygromas are most often caused by your pup laying on hard surfaces like concrete, tile, or hardwood floors. Larger dogs, older pups, or those recovering from surgery are more prone to developing these fluid-filled swellings because they’re more likely to rest their weight on their elbows or other bony spots.

How to Spot a Hygroma

Have you noticed a new bump on your furry friend’s elbow or another joint? Don’t panic! It’s essential to have your vet take a look to ensure it’s nothing more serious. Your vet will likely perform a physical exam and may ask about when you first noticed the bump and any changes in your dog’s behavior. Sometimes, a biopsy is needed if the growth looks a bit out of the ordinary, but that’s just to be extra careful.

How to Treat a Hygroma at Home

The first step to healing a hygroma is to prevent any more bumps and pressure on the affected area. Think soft and cozy—it’s time to create a little comfort oasis for your pup! Offer plenty of soft, padded bedding and keep them off those hard surfaces. You can even add some extra cushioning around the hygroma to give it some more love and care.

The Easy Solution: Protective Gear for Hygromas

Here’s a game-changer: Adjustable DogLeggs! These innovative, easy-to-use protective pads are designed specifically for elbow hygromas. They offer fantastic coverage, padding, and protection, helping prevent and treat those pesky swellings. With adjustable straps for the perfect fit and a special design that allows air circulation while keeping joints warm, DogLeggs are like a cozy hug for your pup’s elbows. They even have a chest strap to keep everything in place, so your dog can move around comfortably without losing that extra layer of protection.

We’re Here to Help!

We know how much you love your fur baby, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. If you have any questions or need more information about treating hygromas, don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can help your pup feel their best and keep them healthy, happy, and ready for all the snuggles and adventures ahead!