Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

My dog has a scabby bite wound. How do I treat it and stop licking?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | unneutered

My dog has a scabby wound on his neck due to his brother (my other dog) biting him excessively I know this because it’s okay unless his brothers bitten it, how do I stop him biting it and look after the wound

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on March 27th, 2020

If they are play fighting a lot, then you may have to keep them separated until the wound can heal. 1. Clip the hair away from the wound using buzzing-type clippers, not scissors or a razor. This is so you can monitor the wound and keep the hair out of the way to help with healing. 2. Disinfect the wound once with peroxide or a first aid chlorhexidine wound soap. Do not continue to use peroxide, or alcohol, as this will delay healing. 3. Apply an antibacterial ointment, such as Neosporin, twice daily. If needed to clean the wound, use a warm wet wash cloth to gently wipe away any dried fluid. 4. Prevent all licking or scratching of the wound by using an e-collar or dog booties or socks. 5. See a vet if your pet experiences prolonged lethargy, decreased appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, or a rectal temperature over 103, or if there is creamy discharge or discharge with a foul odor, or there is swelling around the wound.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 23rd, 2020

    Poor Louis. I would gently clean his wound with warm water and antiseptic soap. To keep him from licking at it, you can put an Ecollar on him. You can get one at a pet store or make one at home. Keep the wound clean and dry, and monitor it for signs of infection. If you see redness, swelling, warmth to the touch, or pus, then it is infected and he will need to see the vet for antibiotics to treat it. I hope this helps!

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 12th, 2017

    I am sorry to hear about Brob. A bite wound should be seen by a veterinarian ASAP. Unfortunately mouths contain a good number of bacteria and we usually want to put the bitten dog on an antibiotic. The vet can clean and flush the wound (sometimes once we see them the damage is worse than initially thought because fur hides a lot!), and give the appropriate medication. In the meantime, discourage licking by using an e-collar or t-shirt depending on the location of the wound. If the wound wasn't cleaned, you can use a mild soap or pick up a product called hibiclens at the drug store to clean the area well until he sees the vet.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers
image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Sponsored