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My dog has red, bleeding chin bumps. Is it an emergency vet visit?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | Female | unspayed | 1 year and 1 month old | 16 lbs

My dog has red, bleeding bumps on his chin for 24 hours, with worsening. What is this, and how soon do I need to bring him in? (I'm trying for tomorrow, but I want to know if it's urgent enough to go to an emergency vet if nothing else is available.) Photo attached.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on November 22nd, 2020

Hi and thanks for your request.
This is likely to be due to a superficial skin infection likely to be caused by bacterial infection. It is not urgent.
A check up, appropriate disinfection and possibly antibiotics (oral, topical or in a shampoo formulation) are needed to solve the problem.
Disinfection may be started at home with very diluted hibiscrub or betadine or salted water baths twice daily. Buster collar may be useful as well to avoid any scratching (if any).

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Published on May 6th, 2020
It may be generalized skin infection. Whether it is bacterial, fungal or parasites cannot be determined without a physical exam. Ideally, he should be physically examined by your veterinarian. Antibiotics at the very least, may be indicated for his chin. Given current events, you may need to drop him off at the clinic then wait for the vet to call you to discuss exam findings and treatment options.
In the meantime, place an e-collar (cone) on him to prevent excessive licking or chewing. Keep his chin clean and dry. You can use a plain baby wipe or pet wipe to clean it. If you are using plastic food or water bowls, consider switching to stainless steel or sealed ceramic. Plastics can harbor bacteria which can promote infection. Treat him monthly with a topical or oral preventive to rule out fleas.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on November 17th, 2016
It sounds like he has a bacterial skin infection and may need an oral antibiotic. Have your vet take a look at him to determine the best way to treat. Your Vet can prescribe an antibiotic and a corticosteroid, if needed, to treat.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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