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Why does my puppy have bleeding bumps and dry skin on his chin?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | unneutered | 4 months and 26 days old | 30 lbs

My pup, 5months dogo/mastiff mix has dry flaking on his chin...looks like dry skin scabs(excema/scoraiasis)..some have bumps that are full of blood and when he knocks his chin or is messing with a toy, they bleed. I popped one and it is just blood. It dissapeared, but another couple bumps erupt. I have tried keeping it clean but he is a very "nosey" bugger.. He uses his snout to touch you to get your attention. I thought maybe it was am allergy to something he has touched.its only his chin/lips

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 3rd, 2017

Poor pup. It sounds like he may have classic chin acne going on here. This can lead to pustules and papules that consistently appear on the chin as the follicles get plugged with overactive glands, leading to inflammation and sometimes pus. The best way to treat this is to use either Stridex pads or pet formulated benzoyl peroxide pads from your local vet to consistently use on Pacino's chin. This will help to dry out the bumps and keep he inflammation down. Then treat periodically with oral antibiotics for any infections that may arise. I would even suggest using only metal food and water bowls and rule out a food allergy by placing Pacino on a vet recommended hypoallergenic food (i.e. Royal Canin hypoallergenic HP, Hills Z/D, etc). I hope this helps!

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    Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

    Veterinary Technician

    Published on November 25th, 2019

    Ouch. That area looks red and irritated enough that it should probably be checked out by your vet. Puppy acne can cause bumps sometimes, but they shouldn't open up or bleed. Your vet can prescribe an antibiotic and test the area for any more serious problems. Until you can get to your vet, keeping the spot clean and dry and using an Elizabethan (cone) collar to keep Tank from rubbing his chin can help.

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