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My puppy got a face scratch from another dog. How do I treat it?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pembroke Welsh Corgi | Male | neutered | 4 months and 29 days old | 33 lbs

My puppy got a scratch from another dog today, on his face. He paws at it some, but isn't scratching excessively. Do I need to treat the wound, and how?

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2 Answers

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Answered By Rebecca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 22nd, 2019

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Keep the wound clean and dry. You can use just a damp cloth to clean the wound if needed. I would not recommend using any appointments or peroxide is that can cause worsening irritation. It will probably heal up just fine, but if you notice any swelling or discharge I recommend that does it to rule out infection or need for antibiotics.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 7th, 2017

    Oh no, poor Bentley! If it's not bleeding profusely and the scratch itself is small, then you can gently clean it with warm water and antiseptic soap. Keep an eye on the scratch, and if it because red, swollen, warm to the touch, or has pus, then it's infected and he will need to see the vet for antibiotics.

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