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Why is my dog's scrotum dark, peeling, and he won't stop licking?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | unneutered | 25 lbs

My dog choppies has a problem around his balls..always scratching and licking them..it looks likke a bad burn..now thhe skin is dark and starting to peel..please help..photos are enclosed

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 19th, 2017

Hello there and thank you for posting your picture and concern about Choppies! From the picture you sent, it looks like Choppies has caused quite a bit of irritation and inflammation on his scrotum. I would pick up a plastic cone from the pet store to put around his head so that he is not able to lick this and then get him in to see your veterinarian for an examination. There are multiple possible causes of this, which include thermal burn, inflammation of structures inside the scrotum causing Choppies to lick due to the discomfort, infection or behavioral. I would get him examined by your vet so a cause can be determined and appropriately treated. Hope this helps! Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any other questions or concerns. I am also available via text / phone consultation if needed.

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Other Answers

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

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 28th, 2018

    Even though a picture would help to understand better the underlying cause, this presentation could be due to a trauma or localized spot of skin infection (likely to be caused by bacteria). A check up, appropriate disinfection and possibly antibiotics (oral, topical or in a shampoo formulation) are needed to solve the problem. Disinfection can eventually be started at home with very diluted hibiscrub or betadine or salted water baths. Buster collar may be useful as well to avoid any licking. 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.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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