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Why is my dog acting strange with a painful red bump on his side?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pit Bull Terrier | Male | neutered | 170 lbs

My dog is a year and half. He has this big red inflamed bump on his side. It has hair on it. We tried to see if there was puss in side but blood comes out. We have not messsed with it since. It seems to be hurting him badly. He is not acting the same. I do not know what it is

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 31st, 2017

It could be an infection, cyst, histiocytoma, etc. Have your vet examine the bump to determine the cause. Your vet can do a needle aspirate to help diagnose and then determine the best way to treat the problem. He may need an antibiotic, it may need to be removed, or your vet may want to monitor to see if it goes away without treatment. If it is a histiocytoma, it should resolve on its own.

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    Answered By Jacqueline Nobles, DVM, DACVECC

    Veterinarian, Board-Certified Emergency/Critical Care Specialist

    Published on

    It could be an abscess, foreign object under the skin, benign or malignant tumor. You should have your pet examined by a veterinarian. They will be able to treat his pain and determine the underlying cause.

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