Why is my dog's armpit skin red, rashy, and looks like a tag?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | unneutered | 5 months old | 55 lbs
My dog's skin under his armpits is very red & looks like a rash almost. It looks like a skin tag in a way. Is this normal? And what would cause his skin to look this way?
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on November 16th, 2017
Hi there and thank you for using pet coach to address your concern. What you are seeing appears to be a rash that could be secondary to chafing. In a young active dog chafing can be common from high activity due to the friction leading to the redness and inflammation that you are seeing currently. I typically recommend using a spray such as malacetic conditioning spray and apply to the area until resolved. This spray will have a steroid in it to reduce inflammation and redness. It also has an antibacterial component to it so that if there is a secondary bacterial infection in this area it will help treat that. To help prevent future episodes, I typically recommend applying a greasy ointment in the armpit area such as Biobalm. This is a product that you can find online quite easily. I hope this helps! Please feel free to contact me with any other questions or concerns that you may have.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on September 6th, 2018
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 may 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. Hope this answer was helpful, but 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.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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