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My dog has an oozing, growing pimple-like growth. What to do?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Female | spayed | 2 years and 10 months old | 68 lbs

14 days ago, I noticed a small pimple like wound on my dogs fur around the rib cage area. Since I noticed it 1 4 days ago, it has gotten larger, and seems to ooze a little matting the hairs around it. I'm very concerned! Doesn't seem to really bother her, but it's bothering me. It sticks out on her short hair.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Laura Johnson VMD

Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on January 3rd, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Suzie!

It's hard to see the growth well from your picture and sadly a lot of skin growths can look the same, even benign vs cancerous ones. I always recommend that any new growths be evaluated by your Vet. Possible causes are: a skin infection, sebaceous adenoma, a wound or abscess, histiocytoma, mast cell tumor, etc.

You can start with shaving the fur away from the growth, cleaning it twice daily with mild soap and water and then applying a triple antibiotic cream twice daily. If Suzie is licking the area use an E-collar to prevent that. If the area doesn't improve in a few days then have your Vet examine it.

I hope this helps and I wish Suzie the best!
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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