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My dog has flies on his head. Is it a botfly or skin infection?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | unneutered | 7 months and 16 days old | 32 lbs

What is on my dogs head? Is this botfly? Flies have been on his head a lot lately when we go hiking and they just sit there and keep bothering him.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Stephanie Echols, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 3rd, 2019

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It looks like Pickles has a superficial skin infection on his head. I’m not sure what caused the infection but it is likely the flies are attracted to the infection smell. I recommend taking him to a vet for treatment of the infection and to look for the cause. In the meantime, you can wash the area with mild soap and water and be sure to dry it well. I would keep him inside until it’s scabbed over so flies don’t keep coming back. Good luck and kisses to Pickles!

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    Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Pickles needs to see the veterinarian to get this cleared up. Pickles' hair loss is more likely to be related to ringworm (which humans can get), scabies (which can also effect humans) or other skin mites, fleas or allergies. The flies landing on the area can spread infection as well as they may lay eggs in it causing a maggot infection: https://www.petcoach.co/article/fly-bites-in-dogs/ For your interest, here is a link about bot flies (cuterebra): https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/cuterebra-or-warbles-in-dogs That infections needs a correct diagnosis and likely antibiotics. Additionally, keep it clean, dry and protected from scratching or rubbing with an elizabethan collar. Have Pickles examined within the next day to start this process. A physical exam and some basic diagnostics are needed to determine the underlying cause. Best of luck.

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