Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog has sudden bumps on her skin. Is it an allergy or hives?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 55 lbs

what are these bumps on my dog.

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on August 2nd, 2017

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Nora! If they appeared suddenly they are likely hives from an allergic reaction from a bug bite or other allergen. I'd call your Vet this morning and set up an appointment. They likely will give her a steroid and antihistamine injection if hives. Good luck!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    This is probably due to an allergy, although it could also be infection or mites. First of all, in order to rule out skin parasites, you will need to treat with a high quality flea treatment (advocate or advantage), then ask the vet to perform a skin scrape - this might reveal an infection or a mite infestation. If all of those came back negative, the next step is to treat the allergy symptomatically and try to discover the cause of the allergy. Three main type of allergies are usually affecting pets: food allergies, flea and parasite related ones and environmental type (allergens coming from trees, pollens, dust etc etc). Some medications can be given by the vet in order to repair any possible skin lesions (like steroids and antibiotics). Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

    Vote icon

    0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Christie Long, DVM

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on December 24th, 2016

    I think it's very likely that this is an allergic reaction. What you're describing sounds like hives ("urticaria" is the medical term), and the fact that the bumps are increasing in size and in number suggests that Nibbles is continuing to have a reaction. Unfortunately, it's difficult to say exactly what she's reacting to - could be new laundry detergent, new clothing, the Christmas tree - almost anything. She likely needs to see a vet today to get an injection of a couple of medications - the injectable form of Benadryl (works much faster and better than the capsule) and a steroid injection - to decrease the inflammation. I'd take her in now to get this checked.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My guinea pig has a growing lump on its neck. Can it heal itself?
Guinea pig has a growing, hard neck lump? Worried about vet costs? A certified veterinarian advises on crucial steps for diagnosis and your pet's well-being.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has a lump on their neck. What is it and what should I do?
Is your pet's lump a mystery? A licensed vet tech explains common causes like tumors or infections. Discover why a vet visit is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My mouse has a growing lump. What can I do if I can't afford a vet?
Concerned about your mouse's growing lump and vet costs? A trusted Petco veterinarian provides guidance on managing her comfort during this difficult time.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has a soft lump. How long can I wait before seeing a vet?
Discovered a soft, nickel-sized lump on your pet's chest? A certified veterinarian offers expert advice on tracking changes and when to seek professional evaluation.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Dog licking paws, fur loss, and jaw wound: Could it be allergies?
Is your Shih-Tzu crossbreed biting his feet, losing fur, or has a wound? A trusted vet explains these classic allergy signs and advises on treatments like Apoquel or medicated shampoo.
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored