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Dog has red spot with hole after scab came off. What could it be?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Cocker Spaniel | Female | spayed | 14 years and 9 months old | 20 lbs

My dog has a spot on her side. It has a dark scab. I cleaned it with a first aid antiseptic and the scabby material came off and exposed a red circle the size of a nickel with a hole in the center. What could this be?

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on November 17th, 2017

I suspect this may be an infected cyst. These are very common in older dogs. They usually need antibiotic therapy to improve, and occasionally need surgical removal. Of course there could be other causes as well Such as a cancerous tumor. I would highly encourage you to have her seen by your veterinarian. Best of luck and I hope Sammy improves soon.

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