Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog has a ruptured yellow lump on her back. What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Female | spayed

Hey I just gave my German sheperd a wash, and i noticed this on her back in her coat. She only has one. And she is not in any discomfort. When combing her it appears to have torn however I'm not sure what it is. Yellow ball like puss came out? Thought I would ask on here as my vet is not open until tomorrow. Is there anything I can do for her?

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 10th, 2019

Hi there and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! From the pictures, it appears as though this is a cyst. I would clean this using a combined solution of water and betadine (mix until light brown) and keep the area clean. The cyst will likely close back up now that it has ruptured. If it continues to drain material or becomes infected, then I would have a veterinarian take a look at this and plan to have it removed. I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns and I would be more than happy to help you further.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 10th, 2019

    These are typically what we call sebaceous cysts and commonly open up when caught on a comb during grooming. There is nothing you can do to reduce the occurrence of these cysts. They will start to show up in middle to older aged animals. If you want to avoid these opening up during grooming, then I would speak with a veterinarian about having these surgically removed.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?
See red spots on your pet? A certified Petco vet discusses common causes like allergies, infections, or mites, guiding you on diagnosis and treatment options.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu has a white bump in its fur. Should I take my pet to the vet?
Worried about your pet degu's white pustule? A certified vet discusses this potential skin infection, explains why not to pop it, and guides your next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Book Now

Sponsored