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Why does my dog have a red, spreading scab on her neck?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Female | spayed | 1 year and 6 months old | 55 lbs

My dog something that looks like a scab on her neck. It's also red around her neck and it looks like it's spreading. Any idea what it could be?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on May 18th, 2017

Even though a picture would help to understand better the underlying cause, this presentation could be due to a trauma or localized spot of skin infection (likely to be caused by bacteria). A check up, appropriate disinfection and eventually antibiotics (oral, topical or in a shampoo formulation) are needed to solve the problem. Disinfection can eventually be started at home with very diluted hibiscrub or betadine or salted water baths. Buster collar may be useful as well to avoid scratching. Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Juliana, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    A scab on the skin with a surrounding red area could be caused by many things! A picture may help us give you the best information. But some possibilities include a "hot spot" or infection of the skin that spreads quickly as dogs traumatize the area by scratching a lot. If it is a hot spot, the skin will usually be moist and sensitive to the touch. An insect bite could also cause a small area of scabbing with a surrounding area of irritation or redness. A skin allergy with secondary infection can cause many red bumps or papules, scabs, red skin, pimples or any combination of these skin lesions. I would keep the skin clean with a cool wash cloth, prevent her from scratching the area, and schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to evaluate the skin and prescribe any necessary antibiotics or topical medication.

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    Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 18th, 2017

    It is certainly possible that Teddy has allergies to something in his diet or environment and developed a lesion or skin infection from scratching. Other causes of crusted skin lesions can be from hot spots, parasites, ringworm, mange, etc. Monitor the lesion for now, but if it persists or worsens, take him to his vet for an exam.

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