Skin Lesion or Sore in Dogs

Overview of Skin Lesions or Sores on Dogs

There are many different types of skin lesions that can occur in the skin of dogs. And each lesion or combination of lesions can be caused by multiple diseases and conditions.

Some lesions are a manifestation of a dermatological disease while others are a manifestation of an internal disease. As an example dogs may develop ulceration in the mouth and crusting on their feet as a manifestation of liver disease or pancreatic tumor.

In other cases skin lesions are manifestation of an auto-immune disease (e.g. lupus) and life long immunosuppressive treatment is necessary.

Red itchy bumps (papules) may be caused by diseases like bacterial infection (superficial pyoderma), dermatophytosis (ringworm), demodicosis (red mange), scabies (sarcoptiform mange), food allergy, and contact allergy may need to be considered. The history and the distribution of the lesion will help differentiate between these diseases.

Non-healing draining wounds (nodules and draining tracts) may be caused by diseases like deep bacterial infections, fungal infections or neoplasia (cancer) may have to be considered.

Some lesions are primary (caused directly by the disease process) while others are secondary (such as self-inflicted) or are just a manifestation of chronic itchy skin.

Most of skin lesions or sores are secondarily infected with bacteria and it is likely that your dog may require weeks of antibiotic to resolve the secondary bacterial infection.

Diagnosis of Skin Lesion or Sores on Dogs

There are a variety of causes for skin lesions and sores. A thorough physical exam and various diagnostic tests can help determine the cause and direct treatment.

Therapy of Skin Lesion or Sores on Dogs

Treatment of skin scores or lesions will depend on the underlying cause. For example, antibiotics may be used to treat infections, surgery to remove cancer or tumors, and steroids to treat immune-mediated skin problems.

Home Care

Early diagnosis is very important, thus if your dog has skin sores, seek your veterinarian’s help without any delay. Some disease can be treated successfully if caught early but prognosis may become poor in advanced cases.