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My dog's ear tip is cut, black, and crusty. Does it require a vet visit?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 29 lbs

Hi. Two days ago we noticed the tip of my dogs ear looked cut, black and crusty. It goes deeper than just a scratch. We didn’t notice her injure it, this just happened randomly. I have attached photos, but in the photos they look slightly slimy because we were told to put neosporin on it. I just want to make sure we don’t need a vet visit for something more serious.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Davis

Veterinarian

Published on December 29th, 2019

From the photo it looks like an injury to the ear tip. These often bleed and the scab would make it look black and crusty. It should heal fine without treatment other than what your are doing by applying the antibiotic ointment. It’s best not to rub the area since leaving the scab on will protect the injured area as it’s healing. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Pua.

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    Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

    Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

    Published on July 12th, 2018

    Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Knowing that there was an infection present before, this is likely another infection or part of the previous one. This would warrant a veterinary evaluation as at this point, it would be a good idea to culture this wound and perhaps consider further local and systemic therapy. Your veterinarian could check if a persistent infection seems likely and treat accordingly. Good luck and have a great day!

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