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Why is my female dog licking her raw privates? Are fleas the cause?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 5 years and 5 months old | 100 lbs

My dog is female and I noticed about three to four days ago she has been trying to bite or lick herself in the private area and she began to whine today which is uncommon so I looked back in the area and ít is raw and really red in the area immediately surrounding her private. The red area is raw but not like bloody and appears to be a little pus in spots. I also noticed 3or 4 Fleas on her hind end around the area. Could that be the cause? Could the fleas be causing her to lick herself raw?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Rebecca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 7th, 2017

Hi. Poor Luci. The fleas may have started her licking, or she could have a skin infection in the area. Some female dogs (especially if overweight) dribble a bit of urine and can develop urine scald or yeast infection in that area. It may be a combination of all of the above. You can treat for fleas and gently bath with medicated dog shampoo but if that doesn't help Luci needs to see the vet for exam and approriat medication.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Emily, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Fleas can be very irritating to dogs and yes they will in fact lick/scratch scratch themselves raw. It sounds like she has given her self a skin infection through all the licking and will likely need something for both inflammation and infection from your veterinarian. Depending on her lifestyle starting her on an oral flea preventative might be a good way to prevent this from happening again. In the meantime you can try to clean the area with warm water and a very mild soap and let it dry thoroughly. If you have any way of preventing her from continuing to look at the area until she can see a veterinarian that would be helpful.

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