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My dog has skin bumps on her back. What's causing them and treatment?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Female | spayed | 6 years and 1 month old

Hi, my pup has been developing bumps on her back for the past few weeks. No where else on her body. Haven't used any new shampoo, cleaning products, or food/treats. She doesn't seem uncomfortable, not rubbing around on her back anymore than usual, and that's usually for belly rubs. I've been applying topical antibiotic ointment which helps them fade, but then a few new ones will pop up. Any suggestions would be great. Thanks.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on September 5th, 2018

Hi, thanks for using PetCoach! Poor Moyer!

It could be hives or a skin infection. Pit's are prone to allergic reactions and allergies. You can start with a medicated shampoo, bathing 2 times per week leaving the lather on the affected areas for 10 minutes of contact before rinsing. You can also start an antihistamine in case it is hives. If there is no improvement in 1-2 weeks I would have her seen since it has already been a while. She may need oral antibiotics if it is a skin infection or steroids if it is hives.

Good luck!

https://www.petcoach.co/canigive/dog/benadryl/
https://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=27307

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on October 23rd, 2017
Hi there and thank you for using pet coach to address your concern. Judging from the photos and your description, this may be a skin allergy or skin infection. I would recommend starting a shampoo such as Douxo PS chlorhexidine combination shampoo and bathe twice weekly until resolved. I would also recommend using welactin omega 3 fish oil and essential 6 spot on by dermoscent. If there is no improvement or the skin condition where sense that I would recommend having a veterinarian take a look at this so that more appropriate treatment recommendations can be made. I hope this helps! Please feel free to contact me with any other questions or concerns you may have. I'm also available by consultation if needed
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on November 4th, 2017
Hi there and thank you for using pet coach to address your concern. It sounds as if bubba may be dealing with a skin allergy. I would recommend starting with the following:

1. Douxo PS calm shampoo and bathe twice weekly
2. Welactin omega 3 fish oil
3. Essential 6 spot on by dermoscent
4. Malacetic conditioning spray and apply to the area until resolved

Here is an article on Benadryl usage in dogs that you may find useful to read as well.

https://www.petcoach.co/canigive/dog/benadryl/

I hope this helps! If the skin does not improve or it worsens, I would recommend having a veterinarian take a look at the skin to help make the best recommendation for treatment possible. Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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