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Why is my chihuahua's private area swollen with a red rash?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Female | unspayed | 3 years and 11 months old | 5 lbs

My 4 year old chihuahua seems to have some swelling in her private area. Theres also kind of a red rash and she doesnt have any fleas. I got her about 7 months ago so i thought this could be her first time in heat with me. That doesnt seem to explain the rash though.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Davis

Veterinarian

Published on April 21st, 2018

If she’s not spayed she could be coming into heat. That starts with some vaginal swelling. Sometimes dog lick the area and get it irritated. A rash is not usual. You may want to give a cleansing bath to soothe the skin. She may have a rash from grass, pollen or something she has laid on. If it worsens then I’d have the skin checked since it may be a skin infection that needs antibiotics. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Ruby.

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