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My dog has a red spot on his tooth and bloody mouth. What is it?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Doberman Pinscher | Male | unneutered | 10 months and 11 days old | 66 lbs

Today i saw in my dog's mouth a strange thing like a red point in a tooth similar to a wound or a pimple. the tooth is also like skinned partially around this point and all the mouth has a blood smell. What is it? Can I cure it by my self or is it necessary to bring him to a vet? Thank you very much for the attention

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Heidi DVM, CVA, CCRT, CVTP, CVSMT, CVCH

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist, Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner

Published on October 2nd, 2017

Thank you for providing such good pictures. It looks like Lars has broken part of his tooth and what you are seeing is the pulp cavity. The pulp cavity is the center of the tooth where the nerves and blood supply run. The problem with having the pulp cavity exposed is that the area will be painful, and bacteria can now get into the tooth. In order to prevent infection, either the tooth needs to be extracted or a root canal needs to be performed. If your vet doesn't perform these procedures, they can refer you to a veterinary dentist who does. But have your vet evaluate Lars and give you their recommendation. I would also recommend discussing Lars' chewing habits, so you can try to figure out what caused this, so he doesn't break any other teeth.
Good luck! I hope that was helpful. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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