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Why does my sensitive skin dog have a red rash on his armpit and neck?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 3 years and 6 months old | 55 lbs

Oscar suddenly has this rash under his armpit. He doesn’t where a harness. So nothing is rubbing. He also has a rash on his neck. Which he’s gotten before. And I just washed him with medicated shampoo and it went away last time. He has sensative skin. First pic - armpit Second pic - neck

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

Veterinarian

Published on July 26th, 2018

Hi and thanks for posting on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

Thanks for sending along the pictures- the areas there do look very red and do appear infected to me. Allergies, bacterial, fungal, or mite infections can all be possible causes. You can try the medicated shampoo again to see if it helps this time around. If it doesn't help much or if it worsens, I would recommend Oscar see his veterinarian for an exam and further evaluation. He may need antibiotics or other medications as needed.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on March 15th, 2018
The rash you are seeing could be from chaffing. It does not appear infected or concerning. I would suggest using a balm such as BioBalm by Dermoscent, which can be found online quite easily. If there is no improvement I would recommend having your veterinarian examine Chloe so that the most appropriate diagnostic and treatment recommendations can be made. I hope this helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Amber W
Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist
Published on September 13th, 2017
Hello and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! A mild rash or redness in the armpits or under the neck like Belle has could be allergy related but it also could be related to a bacteria, fungal, or yeast skin infection. If she does not seem itchy in these areas it may be okay to monitor. Douxo makes some medicated shampoos that may be helpful, however you probably want to take Belle to your veterinarian first. Your veterinarian can take a sample of cells and evaluate them under the microscope to see if an infection is present. That way the most appropriate shampoo or oral medication can be dispensed.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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