Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Already a member? Sign in
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

My dog has a sore on her leg she keeps licking. Is it a mass?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Female | spayed | 5 years and 11 months old | 85 lbs

I just sent a question and my photos didn't get attached so im trying again. The sore on her leg has been there for a little over a week. Doesn't seem to bother her other than licking it on occasion. I have also noticed a lot more licking on shin and top of paw and also on blanket, couch or whatever she happens to be laying on.

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Heidi DVM, CVA, CCRT, CVTP, CVSMT, CVCH

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist, Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner

Published on January 14th, 2018

The pictures attached normally this time. Thank you for posting again. The area on Garnet's leg is raised, so I suspect that it is a mass instead of a wound (which is why it is not going away). Anytime a new mass is noticed, I always recommend having it evaluated to see what it is and if anything needs to be done about it. Unfortunately, we can't tell anything about a mass by just looking at it. Your vet can perform a simple test called a fine needle aspirate where they use a small needle to collect some cells from the mass, then look at them under the microscope. They may even need to send the cells to the lab for a pathologist to examine them, so we know what the mass is. If it is benign, you might not need to do anything about the mass at all, but if they see cells that worry them, they might recommend removing the mass before it causes any problems. Good luck! I hope that was helpful. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
How do I safely fix my dog or cat's painful hangnail at home?
Ouch! Does your pet have a painful hangnail? Dr. Melanie, a certified veterinarian, provides expert guidance on safe trimming or when to seek professional vet care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has worsening sores and scratches. Could it be an infection?
Nike's worsening sores and constant scratching worry his owner. A certified Petco veterinarian offers expert guidance on potential causes like bacterial infections and next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my 5-week-old chick struggling to walk with splayed legs?
Is your 5-week silkie chick struggling to walk, with splayed legs & curled feet? A board-certified vet explains possible causes like Mareks and what to do next.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Dog licking paws, fur loss, and jaw wound: Could it be allergies?
Is your Shih-Tzu crossbreed biting his feet, losing fur, or has a wound? A trusted vet explains these classic allergy signs and advises on treatments like Apoquel or medicated shampoo.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My cat has a weepy wound she keeps licking. Does it need stitches?
Is your cat's weepy wound concerning you? A certified vet offers guidance on home care, when to disinfect, and signs to watch for before seeking professional help.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What meds can calm my dog for nail trims when he's scared of clippers?
Does your dog dread nail trims? A trusted vet offers advice on calming fearful dogs for stress-free clipping, suggesting oral sedatives and positive association.
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored