Sores/scabs On Inside Front Legs and Chest

by Melissa
(Franklin, Idaho, USA)

We just noticed these and have no idea what they are. They seem like dead skin/bumps but have scabs over the top of it. They are only on the inside of his front legs from 2 or 3 inches below his elbow to up on the sides of his chest. He is a Mini Aussie Doodle.

Editor Suggestion For The Cause of Sores and Scabs Inside the Front Legs to the Chest

Hi Melissa,

Sorry to hear about your dog's issue with leg sores.

There are several potential causes for sores and scabs on a dog's legs and chest, but without a physical examination, it's difficult to provide a precise diagnosis. Here are some possibilities:

Friction or Pressure Sores: Dogs can get these sores in areas where their body rubs against surfaces repeatedly or bears weight for extended periods, although this usually happens more often on elbows and hocks. This might be the case if your dog often lies on a hard surface. However, the location you've described, extending to the sides of the chest, isn't as typical for pressure sores.

Contact Dermatitis: Again, this seems likely given the specific area affected. It could be from lying on a new carpet, or contact with a new cleaning product, laundry detergent, or another allergen.

Fungal Infection: Fungal infections such as ringworm can cause localized sores, and dogs can get them from environments contaminated with fungal spores.

Localized Parasitic Infection: Certain parasites like mange mites (sarcoptic or demodectic mange) might cause localized skin issues, but this often comes with intense itching.

Trauma or Injury: Trauma to these specific areas may lead to sores and scabs, but this is less likely unless you know of a specific incident.

Immune-Mediated Diseases: Certain autoimmune diseases can result in lesions at specific areas. Pemphigus foliaceus, for example, can cause crusts and pustules, typically on the face and ears, but can occur elsewhere.

Bacterial Infection: Bacterial skin infections, sometimes referred to as pyoderma, could certainly cause the symptoms you're seeing. These infections often occur secondary to another problem such as allergies, parasites, or hormonal imbalances that disrupt the normal protective functions of the skin.

In any case, it's essential to consult with a veterinarian to determine the exact cause and best course of treatment. They might take skin scrapings or samples to diagnose infections or infestations, or conduct an allergy test if that's suspected.

Let us know when you have a specific diagnosis.

Best,

Jeff
Editor and Publisher
Dog Health Guide