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My dog has red circular spots but acts normal. Should I be concerned?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | neutered | 5 months and 18 days old | 85 lbs

I found a concerning red circle irritated marks on my dog's body. Photos attached. I can't figure out what it could be. Any help would be greatly appreciated. He is eating and playing and acting 100% normal.

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 9th, 2017

The most common cause of these red circular spots would be biting flies. If your dog seems irritated by them you can apply a cool compress to help decrease inflammation. If the spots aren't resolving in a few days, or your dog develops red spots/bruises elsewhere on the body, lethargy, or pale gums, then a veterinary exam is recommended.

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Lauren Jones VMD
Veterinarian
Published on April 23rd, 2017
The red spot could be due to a skin infection, benign or malignant mass, granuloma, among others. You should take your dog to her vet for an exam to evaluate the lesion. A fine needle aspirate or skin cytology may be indicated to microscopically determine the underlying cause of this lesion so that it can be managed appropriately.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Mara Howard, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on August 20th, 2017
I'm sorry to hear your dog is having issues with her skin. Lesions like you are describing can be due to allergies, an infection (bacterial or fungal), skin parasites or another underlying medical issue. I would recommend she be evaluated by her regular veterinarian to determine the underlying cause for her skin lesions, have any necessary testing done (skin scrape, culture) and get started in any treatment (antibiotics, anti-itch medication, anti-fungal) that may be needed. Good luck!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on November 20th, 2016
Without actually seeing the lesions, it is hard to diagnose but she could have a skin infection, ringworm, allergic reaction, mites, or an autoimmune disease. Have your vet take a look at the lesions to determine the cause and best way to treat. She may need antibiotic, antihistamine, corticosteroid, or other medications to help.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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Why does my dog have sudden red spots with black dots like bites?

It is hard to tell for sure it if both dogs have it I would be most suspicious of black fly bites, which are often just a local irritant. However, the other big concern would be petechia hemorrhages- which could come secondary to things like rat poison exposure! If they are feeling fine and were exposed to flies recently this is more likely but if they seem to feel off or had any other signs of concern it would be safer to take them in!

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