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Why is my dog's nose sore getting bigger and he keeps licking it?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male

My dog as a sore on his nose. It was small them it has gotten bigger thought maybe it was a fungal infection and bought spray but he licks his nose constantly

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Jeffrey Milner

Answered By Jeffrey Milner

Veterinarian

Published on August 5th, 2017

Depending on your dog's age and clinical signs, this could be a few different things. A fungal infection is certainly possible, and if this is the case, it will definitely require a systemic anti-fungal rather than something topical to rid the problem. Bacterial or viral infections can also cause this sort of thing. Another distinct possibility are certain types of tumors. One that come to mind in particular is call a TVT (transmissible venereal tumor). We see this a lot in young, in tact male dogs although it can in theory occur in any canine. Other cancerous growths can occur on the nose and face as well, but this one is fairly common. The only way to know for sure will be to obtain cytology and/or biopsies of the affected areas. I would strongly recommend getting Vador into the vet to be examined sometime soon. These sorts of things are best dealt with head on in the beginning. Hope this helps.
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Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 2nd, 2018

    Poor Rocky! I would try to put some neosporin on it twice a day and you can give some Benadryl if it seems itchy. See link below. I am concerned that it could be infected or even have a fungal component to it. I would have your vet take a look at it. Your vet can start him on the proper meds to help it heal. I hope this helps!

    https://www.petcoach.co/canigive/dog/benadryl/

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Answered By Cara, DVM, cVMA

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 13th, 2017

    This looks like it could be a kerion, which is a form of ringworm. Another possibility would be a benign mass called a histiocytoma, which usually goes away after a couple months. Since you mention its getting bigger, I would take Rocky to your vet so they can test it and find an appropriate treatment.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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