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Dog has itchy bug-bite lumps on inner thigh. What is it and how to help?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Male | neutered | 150 lbs

My red-nosed pitbull has small, bug-bite like lumps in a gathering around the bend of his right rear thigh. The part that just meets the abdomen. I know that they could just be bug bites, because he is an outside dog, but its been bothering him so much. How do you try and stop them from itching him and/or what else could they be?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Jessica Keay, DVM

Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 15th, 2017

While insect bites are possible, another common cause of lesions as we see here is a secondary bacterial infection of the skin resulting in papules, crusts, and pustules which can be very itchy. Oftentimes these dogs need a course of antibiotics and either a steroid or a drug called apoquel to get the inflammation/itch under control. Sometimes the itching may be controlled with an antihistamine such as diphenhydramine, hydroxyzine, or cetirizine under the direction of your veterinarian, but oftentimes initially a steroid or stronger medication is required.
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