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My dog keeps licking a growing spot on his leg. What is it and how do I treat it?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Australian Cattle Dog | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 3 months old | 42 lbs

I noticed this on my dog, it was small at first but now it’s gotten bigger and seems to be bothering him more. He keeps licking it and doesn’t want me to touch his leg. What is it and how do I treat it?

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Paula Simons

Veterinarian

Published on August 10th, 2021

Thanks for sharing pictures of Oreo. The area looks like a region of inflammation that he is making worse by licking. This can potentially be caused by allergies, bug bites, infections, etc. Place a cone on him to prevent him from licking it. You can try applying a small amount of triple antibiotic and keep the cone on until it heals. If it does not improve, he should be seen by a veterinarian. He may require antibiotics or corticosteroids for treatment.

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