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Why does my dog have scabs and red spots on her belly and back?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Female

My dog has scabs and reddish pinkish spots on her stomach and her back

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 12th, 2019

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Coco. I recommend that she sees a veterinarian. Scabs can indicate a bacterial skin infection. If this is the case, she will likely need an oral antibiotic or a medicated shampoo. In the meantime, you can bathe her with a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner such as an oatmeal or fatty acid based formula to soothe the skin. I hope this information helps!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Elizabeth
Veterinarian
Published on September 5th, 2019
Coco needs to be examined and treated by the veterinarian. A bad odor generally indicates infection which is unlikely to respond to at home treatment. Those spots on Coco could be several things including allergies, skin mites, flea bites, ringworm (which humans can get) or a bacterial infection.
Until you can get her in, you can try adding in an omega 3 fatty acid supplement for dogs, this can help improve the skin health. You may also try changing her diet to something like Royal Canin or Nutro as they are aimed at skin health. You can wash the lesions with soap once a day and rinse well (don't wash her whole body, just those spots). Protect the areas from licking or scratching. Best of luck and please feel free to post any additional questions.
3Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Published on April 17th, 2020
It may be local infection or inflammation. A physical exam would be required for confirmation. Use diluted betadine or chlorhexidine dilution to clean the area daily. Place an e-collar (cone) on her to prevent licking. If there is no sign of improvement in 2-3 days, then Coco will need to be seen by a veterinarian. Prescription medications may be necessary.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Elizabeth
Veterinarian
Published on April 2nd, 2020
Those spots on Coco could be several things including fleas, allergies, skin mites, bacterial infection, ringworm (which humans can get) or endocrine disease. There are a couple things you can do at home and they can help but they may not address the underlying cause. You can try adding in an omega 3 fatty acid supplement for dogs, this can help improve the skin health. You may also try changing her diet to something like Royal Canin or Nutro as they are aimed at skin health. You can wash the lesions once a day (not her whole body, just the lesions). Also protect the area from trauma by having your pup wear an elizabethan collar at all times. If the lesions do not start improving within a week or if they are getting worse, have her examined by the veterinarian. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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