Possible Causes of New Open Sore on Dog

What is this? I noticed it today when giving my dog a bath because she stinks and was sticky so I thought she had rolled in something and this bloody sore is what I found under everything. She is a 12 yr old Corgi Lab mix with no other health issues.

Editor Suggestions on Causes of a Bloody Dog Sore

It's impossible to know for sure without a physical examination by a qualified veterinary professional, but a few potential causes of a round, bloody sore could include:

Trauma or injury: Your dog may have scraped or cut herself on something, leading to an open wound. Because the sore is bloody, it might be more likely that it's due to some kind of injury, but that's not necessarily the case.

Bacterial or fungal infection: These can lead to skin sores or abscesses. They're often caused by a dog scratching, licking, or biting at an area that itches due to allergies or other irritants.

Parasites: Certain parasites, like fleas or mites, can cause skin sores. This is especially likely if your dog is itching or scratching a lot.

Dermatitis: This inflammation of the skin can result from allergies or irritants.

Tumors: While it's less likely since the sore just appeared, a bloody sore could be a sign of a tumor. This might be more of a concern given your dog's age, since cancer risk increases as dogs get older.

The best course of action is to get your dog to a veterinarian as soon as possible. They can properly examine the sore, possibly perform tests, and provide appropriate treatment. It's important to not ignore this kind of issue since open sores can lead to infections that can become severe if left untreated.

In the meantime, keep the area as clean as possible and try to prevent your dog from licking or scratching at it. Remember to handle the sore gently to avoid causing any additional pain or damage.

Jeff
Editor and Publisher
Dog Health Guide