Why is my golden retriever licking a leg lump and acting strange?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Golden Retriever | Female | spayed
My dog won't eat her breakfast until dinner time if at all she is also pacing back and forth a lot and for the past few days she's been licking the same spot on her leg. When I looked at the spot I saw a huge lump she usually has smaller ones on her head but that's normal for her breed but those are nothing compared to the one found on her leg. My parents say she's fine but she acts stranger every day I'm really worried she's a golden retriver and is 8 years and 11 months old.
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on May 30th, 2017
From the photo it looks like Molly has a hotspot or skin infection. She may have the changes in behavior because she is sore or even has a fever. Take her to your vet tomorrow to get an exam and the right medicine to heal her skin. You can also fit an e collar or cone on her to prevent further licking.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on June 16th, 2017
I'm sorry to hear Molly seems uncomfortable. Dogs often will lick sores that are painful or itchy. I would recommend taking Molly in to your veterinarian to have her skin evaluated. She likely needs to have the hair shaved and cleaned, as well as potentially some skin tests to see what is causing the bumps. Additionally I would recommend an elizabethan collar to keep Molly from licking the area, as licking can make skin lesions much worse and possibly cause infection. From your description she probably also needs some pain or itch medication to help her be more comfortable and able to sit down comfortably.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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