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My dog has a lump on its head. Could it be a cyst? How do I treat it?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | 3 years and 7 months old | 15 lbs

Sweat gland cyst on my dogs head. How do I treat this.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on September 7th, 2017

Many times these types of cysts will resolve on their own. You can use a medicated shampoo like Dechra DermaBenSs Shampoo that will help flush the follicle. However, if it gets big enough, it can sometimes get infected and need treatment from a vet. Try to avoid squeezing these cysts as you can cause some more damage. Here is a helpful article on sebaceous cysts, which I think is what you may be seeing: http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2011/08/16/sebaceous-cysts.aspx

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    Answered By Rebecca, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 29th, 2018

    I suspect that Mabel may have a sebaceous cyst. Here’s a bit more info. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/cysts Keep the area clean and dry. It is likely to enlarge again, surgical removal is typically required to completely remove the cyst. It could become infected, so monitor for any redness, pain or oozing from the area.

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