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My spayed dog's vulva is red and irritated. Is this a concern?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed

my dog has gone red around the urethra she nearly 5 yr desexed is this normal

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 25th, 2017

Hi there and thank you for using pet coach to address your concern. What you are describing sounds as if the folds of skin around the vulva are red inside. This happens commonly when urine get a trapped in the skin folds and causes irritation. It is especially common in dogs with excessive skin over the vulva and can even predispose to urinary tract infections. I would recommend using malacetic conditioning spray, mal a ket wipes or preva wipes to keep the skin around the vulva clean. If this worsens or does not resolve, I would recommend having her examined by a veterinarian. I hope this helps guide you in the right direction. Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns. I am also available via consultation if needed.

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Maria DVM
Veterinarian
Published on May 28th, 2018
This looks like a skin infection around Willow's vulva. I would recommend putting an elizabethan collar on her so she doesn't lick at it and then taking her to a veterinarian when you can get an appointment. I would recommend getting a urine sample performed to see if she has a urinary tract infection also.

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Mariya Gugel, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on November 29th, 2017
Poor Tazzy! I can see the small red lumps and overall redness of her belly. That amount of redness is definitely uncomfortable! This can be caused by a bacterial or fungal skin infection, food or environmental allergies, as well as some hormonal imbalances. Your vet can rule out any underlying disease and provide antibiotics if there is an infection. In the meantime, you can get her an E-collar or "cone" to prevent her from licking the area. You can also try a dog shampoo formulated for sensitive skin, as this may help with moisturizing the skin and helping the skin barrier heal.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on April 28th, 2018
it is hard to answer this question without seeing what you are referring to. Just based on your description though, I would suggest a vet exam. The number one reason for a dog to lick her vulva that much is a urinary tract infection. That is not something you can treat at home. This is not an emergency. Just get her an exam in the next day or so. Hope this helps. Best wishes.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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