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How to help my dog's itch and stop licking stitches after surgery?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | neutered | 79.01 lbs

My boy just had surgery to get rid of a lump. He is very itchy. Is there anything i can do to help him not be so itchy and trying to get out his stiches. He has a doggy jacket on.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 16th, 2018

I am afraid the itch is the wound trying to heal. Anything that would stop the itching would likely also hinder healing. I actually think the woulnd is irritating him and a natural reaction to that is to lick the wound. Of course we need to keep him from licking the wound and contaminating it with nasty mouth bacteria as well as opening the wound. So, Priat will need to be brave and plow through having a e-collar or wearing the doggy jacket. It will keep him from licking and so facilitates healing. The pain and itching should be gone in a few days (DO NOT take off the jacket until your vet says so). He will get used to it and be a good boy.
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