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My female dog's vulva is red. What could be causing this symptom?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Female | unspayed | 11 lbs

My dogs vagina is red and I’m not sure why she just started today please help!

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on March 9th, 2019

Inflammation in that area can make it look red. Dogs can get vaginitis, infections, tumors or it can get inflamed if she has been licking at it more than normal. Pay close attention to her urination habits as a UTI can cause pain which can cause increased licking. If the redness does not go away after a few days, if she seems uncomfortable or itchy, or if you see a change her urination, have her seen by her veterinarian. It never hurts though to have it checked out right away. I hope this is helpful and please feel free to post any additional questions.

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    Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 19th, 2021

    I agree that the area of skin above Ripley's vulva looks quite red and inflamed. Redness in this area is typically caused by excessive licking. Dogs tend to lick their hind ends for a number of reasons, including full anal glands, fleas, allergies, parasites, and urinary tract infections, among others. You can start by putting an e-collar (cone) on Ripley to prevent her from licking more, as that will only make this area more irritated. Also be sure that she's receiving a good quality flea preventive. K9 Advantix II is a good over the counter option, but there are many more effective prescription flea preventives that you can obtain from your vet. You can also apply a bit of bacitracin ointment to this area twice a day. If the lesion does not improve within the next week or if it gets worse at any point, you'll need to take Ripley to her vet for further evaluation. I hope that everything goes well!

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