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My 8-week-old puppy has a swollen, red, itchy face. Is it allergies?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Bull Terrier | Female | unspayed | 2 months and 3 days old | 10 lbs

My 8 week old bull terrier pup woke up last night crying and itching her face and paws all night whimpering and didn’t sleep. Today her face is a little swollen and progressively gotten more red. Is it just allergies? She is eating and using the bathroom and playing just as normal today but she’s clearly irritated by her face and paws. Could you let me know what this could be? 2 first pics are her today. Last pic is her face normally.

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 10th, 2020

The pictures are kind of blurry but I can tell there is some redness. The swelling is difficult to appreciate. It does seem like an allergic reaction to something, but what.....I cannot say. Since she is acting otherwise normally you can try to give her some over the counter antihistamine medication - you can use diphenhydramine (Benadryl). I would give her 1/2 of a 25mg caplet by mouth every 12 hours. If this has not resolved by Monday then she should see your vet.

https://www.benadryl.ca/products/benadryl-caplets

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Laura Johnson VMD
Veterinarian
Published on December 14th, 2017
Hi, thanks for using PetCoach! Poor Maggie!

It's hard to see the swelling in your picture, but based on your description it does sound as if Maggie is experiencing an allergic reaction. Read our article on Benadryl and if she is not improve take her to the Vet when they open. Most of the time allergic reactions like Maggie's require steroids as well.

I hope this helps and I wish Maggie a speedy recovery!

https://www.petcoach.co/canigive/dog/benadryl/
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Sarah Derksen, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on October 19th, 2019
Poor Lola. This looks like either an allergic reaction, infection, or juvenile pulpy strangles ( cellulitis). This type of swelling, or cellulitis, manifesting as marked swelling of the muzzle, eyelids, and face in a puppy between the ages of 3 weeks and 6 months of age. It then can even progress to lymph nodes, causes a fever, etc. I would start with an exam with your veterinarian and go from there.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA
Veterinarian
Published on June 10th, 2017
Poor Bently! It sounds like a local allergic reaction. It is most likely from a big bite or insect sting. I would recommend to give her 25mg of Benadryl (1 adult tablet) by mouth and then go see a vet for an exam to ensure she doesn't need any additional medications like steroids.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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