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Are scabby black spots on my dog's tail near butt a skin infection?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 3 years and 6 months old | 95 lbs

I noticed black spots on dogs tail close to butt. They are scabby, reddish when I tried cleaning. There are about 10 of them. He takes flea/tick medicine.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 15th, 2017

These look like little crusts associated with a skin infection. Your dog was probably chewing his tail excessively and caused the skin infection. If it is localized to only the tail he probably will not need antibiotics. You can try to use a topical antibiotic ointment on the area to help clear it up. If you cannot get it to clear up or if it begins to spread I would recommend taking Louie in to the vet to be checked out.

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