Dog Stitches and Incision Care: Healing, Warning Signs and Removal

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

Good aftercare is the difference between a smooth recovery and an infected incision.

Types of closure

• Sutures (stitches) under the skin that dissolve
• External sutures or staples that are removed after about ten to fourteen days
• Skin glue that sloughs off
• Drains for some wounds, which need special care

Your vet will explain which your dog has.

What normal healing looks like

• Edges together with a thin line
• Mild pink color, slight swelling
• A small amount of clear or slightly pink fluid in the first day or two
• Mild tenderness
• Itching as healing progresses

Warning signs

Call your vet if you see:

• Gaps, an open wound or exposed tissue
• Pus, cloudy or foul-smelling discharge
• Spreading redness or heat
• Heavy swelling or a lump
• Bleeding
• Missing stitches
• Lethargy, fever or refusal to eat
• Constant licking or chewing

Daily care

1. Check the incision twice daily, ideally at the same times.
2. Keep it dry: no baths, swimming or wet grass until cleared.
3. Prevent licking with a cone or alternative. See dog cone alternatives
4. Limit activity, avoiding running, jumping and rough play.
5. Give medication as prescribed.
6. Do not apply creams, peroxide or alcohol unless instructed.
7. Take photos daily to track changes.

Cleaning

Do not clean unless your vet instructs you to. If told to, use sterile saline or the recommended solution on a clean gauze, wiping gently away from the incision.

Activity and rest

Activity restrictions protect the stitches and underlying tissue. Use a crate or small room, leash for toilet breaks and puzzle toys for boredom. See dog spay recovery and dog neuter recovery.

Stitch removal

If stitches need removal, your vet will schedule a visit about ten to fourteen days after surgery. Do not remove them yourself. If the incision is healing well, the visit is quick.

Seromas and swelling

A fluid pocket called a seroma may form beneath the incision, appearing as a soft swelling that is not hot or painful. Many resolve on their own, but ask your vet to check it.

Infection and dehiscence

Infection can cause redness, heat, discharge and pain. Dehiscence is when the incision opens. Both need prompt veterinary care.

Hair and skin

Fur may regrow unevenly. A scar may remain, though it usually fades. Ask your vet about caring for the skin once healed.

Questions to ask your vet

Ask what the incision should look like, when stitches will be removed, how to prevent licking and which signs mean you should call. Ask how long activity should be limited.

Common mistakes

• Removing the cone too soon
• Letting the dog lick the incision
• Using home remedies
• Skipping the recheck

Troubleshooting

• My dog chewed a stitch: call your vet.
• The wound is weeping: call your vet for advice.
• There is a lump: have it checked.

A simple plan

1. Check twice daily.
2. Keep it dry and protected.
3. Restrict activity.
4. Return for removal.

Real-life examples

A spaniel's spay incision heals neatly with careful cone use. A terrier licks stitches and needs a recheck. A retriever develops a seroma that resolves on its own. Care helps.

Take photos

Daily photos help you and your vet notice subtle changes.

Scar care once healed

Once the incision has closed, stitches are out and the vet gives clearance, you can let your dog return to normal grooming and bathing. Gentle massage may help soften a thickened scar if your vet agrees. Protect pale scars from sun, and call if the scar becomes red, painful or starts weeping again.

Dogs that will not leave stitches alone

If your dog is determined, ask about a sturdier cone, a recovery suit worn over a cone or an adjusted plan. A short course of calming medication may help some anxious dogs. Never leave a persistent licker unsupervised, since one night can undo days of healing.

The takeaway

Keep it clean, dry and covered. Call your vet at the first sign of trouble.

This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every dog is different. If your dog is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.