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My dog has a sore under her nose she keeps licking. How to stop it?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Female | spayed | 7 years and 4 months old

My mum's German Shepherd has a sore on her upper lip just below the nose. It started when she had a runny nose, and she just keeps licking it. It is very red and sore, but won't heal because she keeps licking it. Have tried putting vase line on it to protect it, but she just links it off.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on December 26th, 2016

Sounds like Misty is feeling pretty rough! Just under the nose is a hard place to stop licking, as you can't use an Elizabethan (cone) collar to stop her from doing so. You may need to try to distract misty with a chew toy instead that she can put her energy into to help prevent her from licking the spot. if it is very raw and sore, you may also want to have your vet take a look to make sure there isn't an infection or other irritation that should be treated. Your vet may also be able to recommend a no-lick spray or bandage that may be suitable around the nose, as well. Avoid putting any home remedies on the spot, as it may just increase irritation which will increase licking and stop the area from healing.

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