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What causes a pink spot on my dog's upper lip? When to see a vet?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My dog has a pink spot on her upper lip

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Oneal Bogan, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 11th, 2018

Hi there.

It looks like your dog either has an abrasion or infection causing the pink area on her face. Dogs can get blocked hair follicles that create this appearance, or she may have scraped it on something.

If she'll tolerate vitamin E oil rubbed on it, this can help. If it doesn't resolve within a few days, or gets worse, I would have her checked by your veterinarian.

I hope that helps and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

18Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA
Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist
Published on November 16th, 2017
Pigment loss can be from multiple causes. Of course a scar can cause it, but also skin disorders such as vitiligo, zinc deficiency, pemphigus, and lupus. Many of those disorders look very similar and can only be distinguished by biopsy. Some are very benign and some need treatment to keep from spreading and causing more problems. I would encourage you to have her evaluated by your veterinarian. They can help you decide if further testing should be done or not. Best of luck and I hope she improves soon.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Jenny, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on February 15th, 2018
That area is always. A little thick with some irregular margins due to their lips and canine tooth. Since it seems very demarcated from the surrounding tissue I would have it checked to make sure it is. Itching to worry about. It will require someone actually feeling the borders and thickenesd to know for sure
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Ana M, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on March 8th, 2021
Thank you for submitting your question regarding Nova. I recommend that she sees her veterinarian. Has she been digging or rubbing her nose on anything to cause scrapes? That is a possibility a young dog. If this is not the cause, there are autoimmune conditions that cause loss of pigment to the nose. Discoid lupus is an example. Finally, a skin infection is also possible. The veterinarian will examine her and decide how best to test or treat her. I hope this information helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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This presentation could be due to a trauma or localized spot of skin infection (likely to be caused by bacteria). A check up, appropriate disinfection and possibly antibiotics (oral, topical or in a shampoo formulation) are needed to solve the problem. Disinfection may be started at home with very diluted hibiscrub or betadine or salted water baths. Buster collar may be useful as well to avoid any scratching. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. If this answer was helpful please let us know, this will be used to improve our service!

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