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My dog has sudden bumps on her head. Is it hives or emergency?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Female | unspayed | 6 months and 12 days old

My dog has a lot of bumps on her head. They almost look like mosquito bites and they're getting bigger and she's getting more. It started about 10 minutes ago. I don't know what it is or what to do.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 13th, 2017

If these just arose out of nowhere I would be concerned they are hives and she is having an allergic reaction. Since they are on her face, I would consider this an emergency, so it would be recommended to take her in to the emergency clinic right away, where they can give her a shot of benadryl and a steroid shot to stop the reaction. In severe cases of allergic reactions the face can continue to swell and the swelling can extend to the airway, becoming life threatening, and we don't want that to happen!

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 7th, 2017

    Oh no, poor Finley! If she was just outside, it could be that she is suffering from an allergic reaction or bug bites. I would monitor her for now. Should these bumps spread or she starts showing other signs of an allergic reaction including difficulty breathing and/or swelling of her face and muzzle, then I would have her seen by an ER vet. The Animal Emergency Clinic of St. Petersburg (727-323-1311) is open 24 hours, so you can take Finley into there if needed. Otherwise, monitor her tonight, and if the bumps are still present in the morning, I would take her into your vet for treatment. I hope this helps!

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