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My dog has a hard black bump with a hole under her leg. Is it a tick?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | unspayed | 4 years and 3 months old | 35 lbs

Hello I have a young dog and i noticed she has a small black hard bump under her right front leg. it has a small black hole on the outer corner which seems to be either how whatever it is got in there or how the body is releasing whatever is built up. i'm not sure if it ticks but thats my biggest concern. she did the tick 6 month treatment this summer. i was hoping to get an answer or atleast some guidance on how to move forward.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on November 19th, 2017

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This could be a benign or malignant growth. This is often differentiated by a test called a fine needle aspirate (FNA) which is a pain free, inexpensive and easy procedure which in most cases will help reach a diagnosis. Sometimes a biopsy is needed for a definitive diagnosis. I recommend that you have her evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. I am really hoping for something benign. Good luck and have a good night!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM
Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident
Published on November 9th, 2017
Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This could be a benign or malignant growth. It could also be an abscess. This is often differentiated by a test called a fine needle aspirate (FNA) which is a pain free, inexpensive and easy procedure which in most cases will help reach a diagnosis. Sometimes a biopsy is needed for a definitive diagnosis. I recommend that you have her evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. I am really hoping for something benign. Good luck and have a good night!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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