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What causes a dog rash in armpits and genitals, and how to treat it?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 11 months and 17 days old | 72 lbs

My dog has been having a rash for about a week. In his armpits and gentials. I'm not sure how he got it.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 3rd, 2017

It looks like your dog has a skin infection, most likely caused by allergies or fleas. The allergies can be from a protein in her food or to something in the environment, like grasses, pollens, dust, etc. The allergies cause a breakdown in the skin barrier and make the dog very itchy. The excessive itching and licking cause the skin infection. I would recommend taking Rex in to see the vet so he can be started on some antibiotics to help clear up the skin and get on a good flea control. You may also ask about a medicated shampoo, these can help clear up the skin more quickly. I would also recommend discussing with your vet some options for medication to help control the allergy symptoms like Atopica, Apoquel, or Cytopoint. Good luck!

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    Answered By Mara Howard, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    I'm sorry to hear Rex is having skin issues. There can be multiple causes for the lesions you are seeing, including allergies, skin parasites (fleas or mites), an infection (bacterial or fungal), or an underlying medical issue. I would recommend he be evaluated by his regular veterinarian to determine the underlying cause for his skin lesions, have any necessary testing done (skin scrapes, culture) and get started on a treatment plan (antibiotics, anti-itch medication, parasiticide) if needed. Good luck!

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