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My dog hit her head and has a red mark. Can I use Neosporin on it?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 10 months and 15 days old | 40 lbs

My 45 lb husky mix hit her head trying to run and duck under a wooden picnic bench at the park. She seemed fine and kept on playing. When it was time to leave I noticed a red mark where the skin split. It's not bleeding at all. Can I clean it with Neosporin or should I use something else?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on May 8th, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! At least based on these pictures, this looks superficial enough that it should be ok with topical therapy. I think applying a triple antibiotic like Neosporin twice daily for 7-10 days would be a good idea. This may make Zelda to be itchy. For this reason, if you notice her scratching at her head, use an e-collar to prevent self-trauma as that may delay healing. Otherwise, this should heal well shortly. Good luck and have a great day!

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    Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    This wound does not look very bad and I would not put anything over it and just let it scab over and heal. I am more worried about your dog possibly having suffered a concussion. Please monitor Zelda for the next 48 hours for lethargy, excessive sleepiness, wobbly gait, uneven pupils, vomiting and any other signs of illness. If they occur she will need to be seen by a veterinarian, as she may have hurt her brain. Best don't let her bounce around too much for a day or two as well. If the wound starts to swell , get very red or oozes pus, it will need to be cleaned and disinfected. Your puppy then may need an antibiotic. But I believe it will just heal without complications and without putting anything on it.

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