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Why is my dog's head scab getting bigger from constant scratching?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Female | unspayed | 5 years and 5 months old | 13 lbs

My dog has what started out to be a small scab on her head but has spread into a bigger one because she keeps scratching it and re opening the wound. She didn't hurt herself or anything so we are clueless as to where the scab even came from to begin with. What could it be?

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on September 14th, 2017

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This looks like a hot spot. This is basically a bacterial infection secondary to self-trauma such as scratching. This is possibly secondary to allergies or another cause resulting in itchiness. I recommend that you have Bella evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. If confirmed a hot spot on examination, then they would start her on antibiotics and something like steroids to decrease the itch. In the meantime, you can use an e-collar which you may get from your local pet store to try to prevent further scratching. Good luck and have a good night!

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