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My dog has a nose scratch. Can I use Neosporin? What if she licks it?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pit Bull Terrier | Female | spayed | 11 months and 21 days old | 30 lbs

Hello. Chloe got scratched or bitten on her nose by another Dog. I just wanted to know how to care for her scratch? Do I have to do anything specific? Can I use Neosporin? Is it bad if she decides to lick the Neosporin if I use it? This is the first time one of Dogs got scratched..all I did so far was cleaning it with warm water. I just want to make sure I'm not doing anything I'm not supposed to. I attached two pictures of the scratch. Thank you very much in advance and have a wonderful day!

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Penelope Graben, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 25th, 2018

Hi there!

Good job cleaning with plain warm water- that is perfect! That wound is fairly superficial and will likely heal just fine on its own. If it's dirty, just a simple wipe with warm water should be sufficient.

I generally recommend keeping scratches like that open to air, so no need to use neosporin. If you already put some on her and she licked it off, there should not be any problems though.

If you notice any swelling or green discharge, it may be a sign of an infection and time to call your vet.

You're very welcome! I hope you have a great day as well!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Rodrigo Roca, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on May 22nd, 2018
Hello, it does look like she scraped her nose on something. You can clean it with a clean damp cloth and just monitor the area. You can rub a little neosporin on the area if you think she will not lick it. If she does lick it its not a big deal, but then you shouldn't apply any more.

If you note any swelling, pain, discharge, or bleeding then have Athena evaluated by her veterinarian immediately. Hope this helps and best of luck.
4Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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