Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

What are these sores on my dog's leg and lip? Vet or home care?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered

My dog of 1 and a half years has recently had this sore on his leg, we believe it to be a hot sore and just this morning I discovered some spots on his upper lip, there is concern and we wondering whether we should take him to a vet or if there are any home remedies? We would also like some confirmation as to whether this is a hot sore or if it is something else? Any assistance would be greatly appreciated. (See photos attached)

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 Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 3rd, 2019

The mass on the leg has the appearance of a histiocytoma which is a benign tumor that is common in young dogs. It will usually regress within a few weeks to a couple months. I would not be overly concerned unless it does not go away or if it starts to bother him. ( https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4952066 ) The lesions on the lip margin though, I have not encountered something that looks this way. If they are raised wart-like things, then they are probably papilloma virus warts that again, should go away on their own. It is difficult for me to tell if they are raised from the photo. If they are not raised......I'm not quite sure what that it from. It would probably be best if you took him to the vet for an exam before you do any "home remedies" since we don't really know what we are treating. You don't want to make it worse. The only real recommendation I can give you at this stage is to get him an immune boosting supplement as both histiocytomas and papillomas can be a sign of a weak immune system. Something like this..... ( https://pethero.co.za/en/product/eco-immune-homeopathic-remedy-to-assist-pets-with-immune-issues-by-eco-vet-2/ ) Hope this helps. Best wishes.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Sponsored