Dachshund swelling jaw and throat

Dog Question: Two year old male piebald dachshund, 15 lbs in good health.  Vaccinated one week ago with 3 year rabbies and distemper shots during annual visit. Is showing signs of swelling below the lower jaw around the throat and front of his chest. When feeling around the throat, can tell there is swelling. Does not show any signs of discomfort. Dachshund has also been shaking his head side to side and flaps his ears numerous times for the last two days. Front yard was recently sprayed with a lawn company weed killer and fertilizer. Symptoms appeared approximately 6 days after the lawn treatment applications were applied. Dog uses the front yard only occasionaly and is supervised. Yesterday dog was outside and digging in the dirt, not on the yard area that was sprayed and showed no symptoms until last night and today.

Hi Joline,

A common reason for a sudden swelling around the neck is a reaction to a bee sting, vaccine, or other bug bite. If there is no wound or other symptoms than this is a good possibility. The normal recommendation is to give benadryl at about 1 mg per pound of body weight every 8 - 12 hours. Usually the swelling goes away fairly quickly. Watch the dog carefully for any sign that the breathing is being affected. Sometimes it is necessary to get the dog to the vet for a steroid injection. If the dog is acting lethargic, is running a temperature, or has any obvious wounds, I would recommend taking to the vet.

Also check the inside of the ears to see if they are red or swollen.