You may think of hernias as primarily injuries that occur in people when they lift things incorrectly, but hernias can be caused other ways and can also occur in animals. Hernias can affect dogs of different breeds including the Cocker Spaniel. A hernia occurs when there is a tear in the wall of muscle that allows the internal organs or other tissue behind that muscle to push through. If you suspect your dog has a hernia, please call your vet and schedule an exam right away. Some dogs can be born with a hernia while other dogs may develop hernias from an injury or trauma. There are five types of hernias in canines which include umbilical, inguinal, diaphragmatic, perineal, and hiatal. Symptoms may include a soft protruding mass in the abdomen area or coughing, lack of appetite, drooling, shortness of breath or vomiting. For further details, call your veterinary clinic Hinesville, GA.