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My Doberman has circular scabby spots on his back. What could it be?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Doberman Pinscher | Male | neutered | 4 years and 3 months old | 99 lbs

my Doberman had his annual vet visit last Friday. He had two "sores" on his back that were circular and had scabs. He's had them a little over a week. The vet thought maybe ringworm but no one in our home has contracted anything even our other dobe. We have been applying elimiderm ointment twice a day for a week. I found 3 additional spots today. He does not scratch and they do not seem to bother him at all. What could this be?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 22nd, 2017

It could be ringworm or a bacterial skin infection. Your vet could do a ringworm culture to determine if he actually has ringworm. If he has a bacterial skin infection then he would need an antibiotic to treat. Call your vet and give him/her an update so your vet can determine the next step. You could also bathe him with a medicated dog shampoo and see if that helps.

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    Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    This could still be ringworm. I would ask the vet to do a fungal culture on these areas to confirm if this is truly ringworm or not. I would also recommend a skin cytology done to look for fungal spores and/or bacteria. If Louie does have ringworm, then an oral medication would be needed to prevent further spread. Also, to note, just because no one else in your house is affected with ringworm, doesn't mean that Louie doesn't have it. Ringworm only affects those with a weakened immune system or the very young and the elderly. Therefore, it is imperative that skin testing is done to confirm or deny our suspicions of ringworm. I hope that you find some resolve soon with Louie and his skin.

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