Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog was bitten in mouth. How to clean? Are antibiotics enough?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 7 years and 4 months old | 55 lbs

Hi, a dog bit into my dog's mouth (pic). The vet doesn't feel a fracture and she doesnt seem to be in pain. She will be on Amoxi/Clav Pot for 10 days and was given Chlorhexidine 2% solution to clean the wound 2-5 times a day, which I am having trouble doing so. I am also concern about her diluting and ingesting it. I am wondering if there are other ways to clean the cut. Would antibiotics suffice? How long until bacterial infection is no longer a threat? Any other complications I should know?

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 Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 23rd, 2018

If you are having a problem cleaning the wound with Chlorhexidine, I would stop doing so as the stress caused to the dog may be more detrimental than the benefit. The antibiotic should suffice, provided you stick to the prescription and finish the course as prescribed. Watch for swelling and pain and if that occurs take your dog back to the vet for a recheck The problem with this wound is that it is a puncture wound, so certain anaerobic bacteria might like that. But giving the antibiotic properly will likely take care of the bacteria. Infection would be the complication, but with treatment as you describe, this should not get infected. Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns and I would be more than happy to help you further. Please take the time to mark this question as helpful or not as it helps us to improve on the quality of our answers to other pet owners. Thank you kindly!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
New Pet
Why is my new pet biting? Is she stressed or scared in her new home?
New pet biting? A Licensed Vet Tech shares expert advice on how to gently acclimate your new companion to their home, reduce stress, and build trust. Get guidance for a happy pet.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?
See red spots on your pet? A certified Petco vet discusses common causes like allergies, infections, or mites, guiding you on diagnosis and treatment options.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Book Now

Sponsored