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My dog has a protruding crusty bump on her head. Should I see a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labradoodle | Female | spayed | 10 months and 20 days old | 27 lbs

There is this protruding cyst-like bump on top of my dog’s head. It is kind of crusty, round on the top and flat on the bottom where it’s connected to her skin. It doesn’t seem to have any puss coming out of it. It’s been there for about two weeks and started from what looked like a small cut. Is this normal? Should I take her to the vet?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on December 2nd, 2017

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This is not normal and does warrant veterinary evaluation. This could be a benign or malignant growth. This is often differentiated by a test called a fine needle aspirate (FNA) which is a pain free, inexpensive and easy procedure which in most cases will help reach a diagnosis. Sometimes a biopsy is needed for a definitive diagnosis. I recommend that you have her evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. I am really hoping for something benign. Good luck and have a good night!

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2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

    Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

    Published on July 29th, 2018

    Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This could be a benign or malignant growth. There is no way of knowing what it is just based on its appearance. This is often differentiated by a test called a fine needle aspirate (FNA) which is a pain free, inexpensive and easy procedure which in most cases will help reach a diagnosis. Sometimes a biopsy is needed for a definitive diagnosis. I recommend that you have her evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. I am really hoping for something benign. Good luck and have a good day!

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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