How Long Does It Take for Dog Stitches to Heal?
When your dog comes home after surgery, you’re probably eager to see them return to their usual self. One of the most common questions pet owners ask is how long it takes for those stitches to heal. The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all, but there are clear guidelines and signs you can watch for during your dog’s recovery.
Understanding the Healing Timeline
Most healthy dogs recover from surgical incisions in about 10-14 days. This window is when the skin and underlying tissues knit back together, assuming there are no complications. Your veterinarian will often schedule a recheck or suture removal appointment within this period.
The healing process happens in three main phases:
- Inflammation (Immediate): Right after surgery, the area may look pink or red and might ooze a little clear or bloody fluid. This is normal in the first day or so.
- Repair/Proliferation (4-6 Days Post-Surgery): New tissue forms, and the incision should start looking more like normal skin—maybe with some light scabbing.
- Maturation (Several Weeks): Scar tissue forms, and the skin regains its usual appearance. Hair regrowth can take up to three months.
Types of Stitches and Their Removal
Not all stitches are created equal. Here’s what you might encounter:
- Absorbable Internal Stitches: These dissolve on their own over time and don’t need removal unless there’s a problem.
- External Stitches: Placed in the outer skin layer, these usually need removal by your vet after 10-14 days.
- Surgical Staples: Like external stitches, they’re removed by your vet within 10-14 days using a special tool.
- Tissue Glue (Liquid Stitches): Used for small wounds; it falls off naturally in about 7-10 days and doesn’t require removal.
Caring for Your Dog’s Incision
Your job as a pet owner is crucial during recovery. Follow your vet’s instructions closely—these usually include:
- Restricting Activity: Keep your dog calm and limit running, jumping, or rough play for at least two weeks. Crate rest or short leash walks may be necessary.
- E-Collar Use: Prevent licking or chewing with an Elizabethan collar (cone). If your dog hates it, alternatives like surgical suits or boxer shorts might help.
- No Bathing or Swimming: Keep the incision dry—don’t bathe your dog or let them swim until cleared by your vet. Avoid applying creams or ointments unless directed.
Monitoring Healing: What’s Normal?
- The incision edges should touch and look clean and dry.
- A little redness or mild bruising is expected early on.
- You might see minor blood or clear discharge in the first 24 hours.
Your vet may suggest taking daily photos of the incision so you can spot changes quickly. Check at least twice daily for any signs of trouble.
Dangers & Warning Signs
If you notice any of these issues, call your vet right away:
- Persistent/increasing redness, swelling, or warmth around the site
- Thick, colored (yellow/green/white), or foul-smelling discharge
- Bleeding that continues beyond 24 hours
- Your dog seems lethargic, won’t eat, vomits, or has diarrhea
- The wound looks open/gaping or stitches are missing/damaged
A firm lump along the incision line can mean a suture reaction; prolonged inflammation may also signal infection. Fever or heat at the site needs immediate attention too.
Tips for Smooth Recovery
- If bandages are used, change them exactly as instructed—don’t remove drains yourself unless told by your vet.
- Create a quiet sleeping spot away from stairs and keep other pets from bothering your recovering dog.
If you have concerns about healing speed—especially if your dog is older, has health problems, or if complications arise—contact your veterinary clinic promptly. Never try home remedies or remove stitches yourself; always rely on professional guidance for safe healing.
