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My dog has a lip sore from playing. What's the best treatment?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 2 years and 7 months old | 45 lbs

Hi there, my dog has a sore on her upper lip. Am I able to apply medicine on it or what is the best course of treatment for this? It is a flat sore and I believe she got it playing with other dogs at the park

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3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on December 12th, 2017

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This could have been due to a traumatic injury while playing. I think though that it would be a good idea to have her evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. The main reason is making sure that there is no other traumatic injury present that needs to be addressed. Otherwise, at least on the picture it looks fairly superficial so you can plan on applying a thin film of triple antibiotic twice daily until you see your veterinarian. Good luck!

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    Answered By Shaneez Wallani, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Ouch! Poor Olive! I recommend having her seen be a vet for treatment to help prevent infection of the area and to make sure the wound does is not more serious than it looks. You can also put an e-collar or “cone” on her to prevent her from rubbing at the area. You can flush the area with saline and apply an antimicrobial ointment a couple of times a day until she is seen by your vet.

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    Answered By Ana M, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 13th, 2019

    Thank you for submitting your question regarding Dexter. I recommend that he sees his veterinarian. The wound is likely infected. If so, he will most likely need an oral antibiotic to help it heal. The infection appears deep and I do not think a topical ointment will work. It is also important to talk about the source of the wound. I worry that it is from an allergy or another skin condition as opposed to a play wound. I hope this information helps!

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