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Why does my dog's lip burn smell foul even with antibiotics?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | BullBoxer | Female | 4 years old | 80 lbs

Hello, I took my dog to the vet already two days for a burn on her lip. It’s still pretty bad and now has a fowl Oder too it. She doesn’t seem to be in any pain anymore so I’m guess the antibiotics are working but any advice on how to get rid of the smell coming out of her mouth !

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jenny, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 17th, 2017

The smell will get better with time. After a burn, the blood supply to the skin can be damaged and cause necrosis over the next few days. This is the old skin going away and new skin forming, so there can be an odor from this. Once all the old, burned skin is gone and the infection stays under control, the smell goes away and everything gets better overnight. If it is getting worse, then you may need to talk to your vet to see if surgical debridement or a new antibiotic may be needed

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    Answered By Rodrigo Roca, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Hello, sorry to hear about Roxy. As she heals the smell will likely resolve as well. This may take several days. If the smell gets worse, if she develops any discharge, pain, or does not want to eat then she should be evaluated immediately. Hope this helps and best of luck.

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