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My dog is licking her belly. Why is there a red, irritated spot?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Bichon Frise | Female | unspayed | 2 years and 1 month old | 17 lbs

Hi Today I noticed that Eli licked her belly ( once or twice ) I checked it now I realized the spot is red

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4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Maria DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 22nd, 2019

The picture is not clear enough to see exactly what is going on with Eli's skin. I would recommend a veterinarian because it may be a hotspot starting which can get drastically worse very quickly. I would recommend an ecollar if she continues to lick. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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    Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 24th, 2020

    I think it looks like an area of superficial skin infection similar to a hot spot. I’d recommend having your vet take a look in person - she may need oral antibiotics. You can put an e-collar or cone on to prevent licking until you can see your vet.

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    Answered By Stacey Anstaett, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 1st, 2019

    It looks like she may have a bacterial infection in the skin there. You can try a product such as this at home for a few days, and put an ecollar (cone of shame) on her to keep her from licking it and making it worse, but if it’s not improving after 3-5 days or if it’s getting worse, get her in to see your vet. Thanks for asking Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

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    Answered By Mara Howard, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 16th, 2018

    Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I’m sorry to hear Lexi is having skin issues. Based on the pictures you provided, it does look like she may be suffering from a skin infection, or a puppy pyoderma. This can be secondary to allergies or another underlying cause. I would recommend she be evaluated by her regular veterinarian to have her skin examined, determine the underlying cause for her skin lesions, and start any treatment (antibiotics, antihistamine) that she may need to resolve it. Good luck!

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