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My dog has cuts and rash from new puppy. Is he sick or infected?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 6 months and 18 days old | 50 lbs

Our vet isn't available this morning, but my dog has some cuts in his face and legs and not his chest has a rash on it. He was also sick throwing up a few times two days ago. We just got him a new puppy friend that only has her first round of shots. I want to make sure that if the cuts are from her teeth (which I think they are) that he hasn't caught anything from her without having her full set of shots

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 22nd, 2017

A picture of the skin here would help a ton. However I can imagine if you were seeing cuts on Sampsons skin, then this can be caused by just about any kind of trauma ranging from a simple bite or knock caused by rough play, to self-inflicted bites, to actual lacerations from something sharp that the pet came in contact with. However if your other puppy is showing similar symptoms then it very well could be something infectious, such as ringworm or scabies mites. Also check your pets for fleas, as this is a common cause of self inflicted scratches and scans. A good flea preventative is best to do now. If you are seeing lesions on both pets then it is best to take both of them in to your vet on tomorrow for a skin test. Vaccinations wouldn't have anything to do with something like this. I hope this helps and best wishes figuring out what is causing your pets skin lesions.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    It is HIGHLY unlikely that Sampson would have acquired any viruses from the scratches/bites from your new puppy. However, bite and scratch wounds can become infected fairly quickly, so try to get Sampson to his vet for evaluation sometime today or tomorrow at the latest. He may need a course of antibiotics and anti-inflammatory pain medications. Until you can get to the vet, try to wash out Sampson's wounds with an antiseptic soap (such as chlorhexidine or betadine) and rinse thoroughly. If he is trying to lick at the wounds, put an e-collar (cone) on him, as this could make matters worse. Hopefully Sampson will teach his new friend how to play a bit more gently after this incident! I hope that all goes well!

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