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What are these bald spots with dark crusty rings on my dog's skin?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 2 years and 6 months old | 34 lbs

My in-laws dog has half a dozen of these bald spots. They had a dark crusty ring. They seem to be resolving on their own. What are they? She just finished a course of antibiotics for something else.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 29th, 2018

Hello. They appear to be epidermal collaretts, very typical of some skin infections caused by a staph bacterium. It stands to reason that they are clearing up because Bulya was on antibiotics. You can continue to treat these at home just by using an over the counter anti bacterial shampoo, one with benzoyl peroxide or 2-4% chlorhexidine. These shampoos are available at most large pet retailers or on-line. If you can bathe Bulya twice a week, letting her sit in the suds for 10 minutes before rinsing, all the lesions should clear in 4-6 weeks. If, however, they are not healing or her skin looks any worse, please be sure to see your veterinarian. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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