My dog has an itchy, crusty scab on his head. Vet or monitor?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Male | neutered | 8 years and 3 months old | 12 lbs
My Shih Tzu Romeo had been itching and scratching. I noticed a hard or crusty scab on his head not far from his ears. Does he need see vet or can this be monitored? He doesn’t seem to be bothered by it
4 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on April 28th, 2021
If he doesn't seem to be bothered by it, you could try to clean the area with an wound wash and see if that loosens up the scab. Shaving the hair with a pair of clippers may also help. If the scab persists and/or he has other lesions, then he should be examined and treated by a vet. He may need an antibiotic and allergy medications to help treat.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on April 4th, 2018
This presentation could be due to a trauma or localized spot of skin infection (likely to be caused by bacteria). A check up, appropriate disinfection and possibly antibiotics (oral, topical or in a shampoo formulation) are needed to solve the problem. Disinfection may be started at home with very diluted hibiscrub or betadine or salted water baths. Buster collar may be useful as well to avoid any licking/scratching. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on June 18th, 2017
Thank you for including a picture. Unfortunately without being able to lay hands on Tyrann and examine these 'scabs' closely it can be difficult to be certain what he is dealing with. I suspect that he may be having some issues with his skin, leading to excess oil production and development of scabs or flakes of material. I would recommend obtaining a gentle dog friendly shampoo, and a brush called a Zoom Groom. Bathe Tyrann once weekly for a few weeks and see if this helps to resolve the issue. Use the Zoom Groom brush to really lather the shampoo into the fur and skin, and also stimulate blood flow to the skin. When bathing your dog, especially if they have skin issues, it is wise to use cool water rather than warm/hot water which can cause further irritation. If this does not help resolve the scans/flakes, or you start to notice other symptoms then please schedule a visit for Tyrann with your regular veterinarian.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on January 3rd, 2017
It sounds like he has a dermatitis and may need an oral antibiotic, antihistamine, and/or a corticosteroid to treat the problem. For topical treatment, using a medicated dog shampoo and/or a topical spray, like Betagen spray usually works well!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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