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My dog has bumps on her mouth. Are they warts? What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female | spayed | 1 year and 5 months old | 33 lbs

Hello, I recently noticed my dog has bumps around her mouth and I’m curious on to what they are, why they are there, and what I need to do for her.. I’ll attach photos below

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5 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 24th, 2018

These look like juvenile warts (oral papilloma). Such warts are caused by a virus, they are self-limiting and and will go away by themselves eventually within a few months. They will need veterinary attention if they increase significantly in size or amount or start bleeding, get infected, or cause other problems.

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7Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Ana M, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 22nd, 2018

    Thank you for submitting your question regarding Brady. He appears to have warts from canine papillomavirus. These are common in puppies, especially those who go to dog parks or do group play as they are contagious between dogs. Most of the time they resolve within 2-3 months if this is the case. He should be kept away from other dogs though as he can spread the virus. You may want to see his veterinarian to verify this is the case. I hope this information helps!

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    Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 19th, 2020

    This appears to be a papilloma virus wart. They are common in puppies. I suggest you leave it alone. It will probably go away by itself in a few weeks. If it doesn't you can take him to a vet for an exam. DO NOT apply anything to it.

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    15Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 11th, 2017

    There are a few differentials for the masses on Bentley's mouth. Papilloma virus, infected hair follicles, inflamed skin pores are the most likely. Papilloma virus (warts) generally affects younger dogs so if the other dog is older, it is most likely immune to the virus. Warts also typically take 2-3 months to resolve. These lesions typically resolve on their own and don't requite treatment. Hair follicle and pore issues typically look red and inflamed, plus they would generally not show up on the gums. Sometimes these do require treatment. When in doubt, take Bentley to see his doctor to have it looked at. Hope this helps.

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    Answered By Amy S. Eutsey, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 12th, 2017

    Although I cannot say with 100% certainty without a hands-on exam, these bumps look like mouth warts or papillomas. A common cause in young and otherwise healthy dogs is a virus. This would be more likely if your pet has contact with other dogs such as at a dog park, doggy daycare, etc. If they are caused by a virus, there has likely been mouth to mouth contact with another dog, or the saliva of another dog on a toy, stick, food bowl, etc. Most cases of viral papillomas are self limiting, eventually resolve on their own - but are highly contagious. I would recommend that you have your vet examine her to make sure this is actually what ha going on.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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