What does a dog's umbilical cord look like? - briefly
A dog's umbilical cord appears as a small, white, rounded structure near the belly button after birth. It typically dries up and falls off within a few days, leaving a small scar or mark on the skin.
What does a dog's umbilical cord look like? - in detail
A dog's umbilical cord, also known as an urachus or the allantois, is a tubular structure that connects the developing fetus to the placenta during pregnancy. This vital conduit supplies the growing puppy with essential nutrients and oxygen while simultaneously removing waste products. The umbilical cord typically consists of three primary components: two arteries, one vein, and a gelatinous substance called Wharton's jelly that cushions and protects the blood vessels.
Upon birth, the umbilical cord is usually cut close to the puppy's abdomen, leaving behind a small stump. This stump eventually dries out and falls off within a few days after delivery, revealing a small navel or belly button. In some cases, the umbilical cord may not fully detach from the puppy's body, leading to an issue known as an urachal remnant or patent urachus. This condition requires veterinary intervention to prevent potential infections and other complications.
The appearance of a dog's umbilical cord can vary slightly depending on factors such as breed, size, and individual physiology. However, it generally resembles a thin, white or light pink string-like structure with visible blood vessels running through it. The cord may also appear slightly swollen or enlarged due to the presence of Wharton's jelly. As the puppy matures, the umbilical scar typically fades and becomes less noticeable, though it may remain as a small bump or indentation on the dog's belly throughout its life.