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My 10-day-old puppy has scabs on its head. Is it puppy cradle cap?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | unspayed | 10 days old | 1lb

Hello , I have a litter of 7 puppies that are only 10 days old and one of the puppies has two scans on her . I read that it could be cradle cap like what human babies get . What can I do for this ?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on December 25th, 2016

Scabs can be from a number of things including some minor skin irritation or injury that is healing. Puppy nails are very sharp, so it is possible a litter mate may have accidentally scratched your pup's head. As long as puppy is eating and acting normally, it is a good idea to just keep an eye on the spot and see if it heals. If the puppy appears sick, the area worsens, or it doesn't heal up, having a vet take a look at it is best as it could indicate a possible skin infection, or parasites that may be causing irritation.

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    Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 9th, 2019

    There is not photograph attached to this post so I can;t see how severe the scratches may be. In general, healthy pets can heal minor abrasions and wounds as long as they are not getting infected. You must avoid trauma to the areas so not further play dates and you must prevent licking with an elizabethan collar. Supervise all further interactions to prevent another injury. https://www.petcoach.co/article/5-tips-to-introduce-a-puppy-or-dog-to-your-older-dog/ If there is any concern about proper healing or infection, I recommend to have your puppy examined by the veterinarian. Best of luck.

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    Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on May 8th, 2018

    I often see long thin scans on dogs when they have a history of rough play with another dog (toe nail scratches) or if they have a lot of bushes/ shrubbery that they run through. This type of long thin scab is usually mild trauma (scrapes). It is unusual for it to be self trauma (scratching herself), but that is always possible too. I would encourage you to keep the next one you find and take it with you to your next veterinary appointment. If you notice any other skin abnormalities then I would encourage a visit to your veterinarian soon. Best of luck and thank you for using Pet Coach.

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