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Why does my dog have a red, scabbing, changing spot on her snout?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 40 lbs

Hello! About 10 days ago, we noticed that my dog had a weird red spot on her snout. We originally thought it was ringworm, but the spot changes between starting to scab up and being bright red and we aren't sure what it is. It's not very raised, just kind of flush with the skin (might be a little bit raised, could be swelling). We also put some antibacterial spray because we thought it was a wound or scratch.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Linda G,  MS, DVM

Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 25th, 2020

Hello. This looks like it might be an eosinophilic folliculitis & furunculosis. This is often seen on the snout or bridge of nose of dogs mainly because of how the dig & root around leaf litter & under bushes. The initial cause is usually a small sab wound from a sticker or thorn, or even a bug bite. Most often we need to do some cytology or even a small biopsy to identify what is actually going on. At the very least, Holly needs to be on oral & some topical medications, including antibiotics & possibly some steroids to reduce the inflammation. I do hope you can have her seen & have this looked after at your earliest convenience. Thanks for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
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