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My dog has a crusty scab on his lip. How can I treat this at home?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | neutered | 2 years and 6 months old | 90 lbs

What is this crusty scab looking thing on his lip and what would be a normal treatment?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian

Published on January 8th, 2019

This looks like a bacterial and possibly yeast in his skin folds from his saliva. This is really common in larger dogs with large lip folds. You could try to use some medicated wipes like miconahex-triz wipes. If it isn't healing, then I would have your vet take a look at it. He will likely need some antibiotics and possibly an anti-fungal medicine to help this heal. I hope this helps!

36Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on June 15th, 2018
Hi there and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to address your concern. If this is a skin infection, you can use a solution of betadine and water (mixed together to give a light brown solution) and clean the area to see if this helps. Unfortunately, most topical ointments, Milo is going to lick off. This may require oral medications if this is an infection (such as antibiotics). I would call the veterinarian on Monday and schedule an appointment for Milo to have an examination so that the most appropriate diagnostic and treatment recommendations can be made. I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns and I would be more than happy to help you further.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Emily, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on July 3rd, 2017
This could be a minor scratch that got infected or a bug bite but it could also be an early case of Demodex, ringworm or even a skin tumor. The safest route would be to have Jet checked out by a veterinarian to make sure it does not need any further treatment. However it would not be unreasonable to monitor it for 24 to 48 hours for any change if it goes away it was likely something minor. Because some of the causes can be infectious to people I recommend washing your hands thoroughly and practicing strict hygiene procedures after handling this lesion.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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What causes scabs on a dog's lips and how can I safely treat them?

Hi there! In looking at the pictures you have submitted of Nixon's lips It looks like he could have a mild skin infection called lipfold dermatitis. This can be either bacterial or yeast. And it does appear to be mild. Other possibilities would be irritation from his canine tooth rubbing or maybe auto immune conditions. Since it does appear mild you can try once daily topical cleaning of the areas with over-the-counter astringent pads. Those type of pads that the store sells for acne. If you don't see any improvement within a week or if it is getting worse I would recommend you take Nixon in to see his vet. They will be able to closely examine him to make sure it isn't something more serious and if they do think it is an infection they can prescribe medication for him. I hope you found this information helpful. I wish you and Nixon all the best!

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My dog has an open sore on his lips. What can I do until the vet?

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