Dog Skin Tags: What Every Pet Parent Needs to Know

Dog Skin Tags: What They Are and When to Worry

Has your dog developed a strange little lump or bump on their skin? For many pet parents, finding a skin tag on their dog can be concerning. The good news is, most dog skin tags are harmless growths. However, it’s still important to know what to look for, when to be cautious, and when to seek veterinary help.

What Are Skin Tags in Dogs?

Skin tags—also known as fibrovascular papillomas—are abnormal but typically benign growths on the skin of dogs. These tags can appear:

• Anywhere on the body, but most commonly on the neck, chest, face (including eyelids), and legs.
• As small, soft lumps that might be flat, raised, stalk-like, or may dangle from the skin.
• With a texture that can be soft, firm, or squishy. Sometimes they’re hard or rubbery.
• Colored similar to the dog’s natural skin—either matching or just a shade darker.

In most cases, these growths are harmless and non-cancerous. However, because other more serious issues can look similar, every new skin growth should be properly assessed.

What Causes Skin Tags on Dogs?

While the exact cause of skin tags is still debated among veterinarians, several contributing factors are identified:

• Friction or Chronic Irritation: Skin tags often develop in spots prone to rubbing, like legs, neck, or under collars and harnesses. Skin folds and pressure areas are common sites.
• Genetic Predisposition: Some breeds are more likely to develop skin tags, indicating a possible hereditary component.
• Viral Infections: Papillomavirus can sometimes cause clusters of skin tags or similar lesions.
• Skin Allergies: Biting and scratching due to flea, food, or environmental allergies may trigger skin tag formation in affected areas.
• Age: Older dogs and large breeds are more susceptible.
• Other Theories: Exposure to solar radiation or other environmental factors may play a minor role.

Which Dogs Are Most at Risk?

• Certain breeds, including Boxers, hounds, bully-type terriers, English Bulldogs, and Pugs, are more likely to develop skin tags, but any dog can get them.
• Large breed and senior dogs see these growths more frequently.

How to Identify a Skin Tag on Your Dog

Skin tags are usually:

• Small—generally no wider than a couple of millimeters.
• Irregular in shape—may be flat, round, or elongated on a stalk.
• Firm, soft, or even slightly wobbly in texture.
• Found during petting, grooming, or bathing your dog.

Pro Tip: If you’re not sure whether a lump is a skin tag or something else, consult your veterinarian for proper identification.

Are Skin Tags Dangerous?

Most skin tags are benign (non-cancerous) and generally do not require treatment. However, it is vital to:

• Monitor for Changes: Pay close attention if the tag changes color, size, or shape, or if your dog starts to lick, bite, or scratch at it excessively.
• Watch for Signs of Irritation or Infection: If the skin tag becomes red, swollen, bleeds, or oozes pus, it may have become infected and needs prompt veterinary attention.
• Rule Out Serious Conditions: Some growths that look like skin tags can actually be warts, ticks, cysts, or even cancerous tumors. Only your veterinarian can tell for sure.

Causes for Concern: When to Call Your Vet

• The skin tag is irritated, infected, or bleeds.
• The skin tag changes color, shape, and/or size rapidly.
• Multiple tags appear suddenly in the same spot.
• Your dog seems uncomfortable—licking, scratching, or rubbing the tag.
• The tag grows near the eyes, mouth, genitals, or anus.

Other Red Flags

• Oozing pus or an open wound on the tag
• Rapid growth or a new mass in an older dog
• A mass that feels hard, fixed, or ulcerated
• Visible patterns of masses forming in clusters

If you observe any of the above, consult your veterinarian as soon as possible.

How Vets Diagnose Dog Skin Tags

Diagnosis generally includes:

• Physical Examination: Most skin tags can be diagnosed by visual exam and touch.
• Biopsy: If there’s any doubt about the nature of the mass, your veterinarian may perform a biopsy. This involves removing a small tissue sample for laboratory analysis.

In some cases, the entire growth is removed for both diagnosis and treatment.

Treatment Options: Do Skin Tags Need to Be Removed?

Most skin tags do not need to be removed unless they:

• Cause discomfort to your pet
• Are repeatedly traumatized or infected
• Change in a concerning way

Removal is always performed by a veterinarian. Methods might include:

• Surgical excision with a scalpel under local or general anesthesia
• Cryosurgery (freezing the tag off)
• Cauterization (burning the tag off with heat or electric current)

Never attempt to remove a skin tag at home. DIY removal can cause pain, excessive bleeding, and serious infection.

Medical Treatments

• Antiviral medications may be prescribed for multiple viral-related skin tags.
• Treatments for infection (such as prescription antibiotics or topical medications) will be needed if there are signs of redness, swelling, or pus.

How to Care for Your Dog’s Skin Tags

• Check the growths at least weekly for changes.
• Keep your dog’s skin clean and brushed, especially in common skin tag locations.
• Use well-fitting collars and harnesses to minimize friction.
• Prevent your dog from chewing or scratching at the tags.

If your dog will not leave the area alone or if a tag gets torn or looks infected, schedule a veterinary appointment promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Skin Tags

What do skin tags look like on dogs?

Skin tags often appear as small, soft, stalk-like growths that move easily with the skin. They’re usually flesh-colored, but may be a shade darker than your dog’s skin. They range from flat bumps to elongated projections and are often easiest to spot during grooming or petting.

Should I be worried about a skin tag on my dog?

Usually, skin tags are harmless. You should keep track of any changes in appearance, size, or if your dog is bothered by them. If in doubt, have your veterinarian examine the growth.

Can I remove a dog’s skin tag at home?

No. Attempting to remove a skin tag at home can cause pain, heavy bleeding, and even infection. Veterinary removal is the only safe method.

When should a skin tag be removed?

Removal is recommended if the tag is causing irritation, repeatedly traumatized, infected, or showing rapid changes. Also, if the diagnosis is uncertain, your veterinarian may remove and biopsy the growth.

How are skin tags different from other lumps?

Skin tags are generally soft and move with the skin, while tumors may feel hard, nodular, or immovable. Warts usually have a rougher surface. Ticks are parasites and have visible legs. When in doubt, consult your veterinarian for identification.

Key Takeaways

• Skin tags on dogs are usually harmless and common in older and large breed dogs.
• Watch for changes, irritation, or signs of infection, and consult your veterinarian with concerns.
• Never attempt to remove skin tags at home.
• Regular grooming and monitoring are essential for your dog’s skin health.

Additional Resources

• Pet health insurance for unexpected veterinary expenses
• Trusted veterinary guides on lumps and skin growths
• Breed-specific care tips

Author

Srija Burman

 

Srija holds an MA in English Literature from the University of Calcutta and a PG diploma in Editing and Publishing from Jadavpur University. Her interest in writing and editing ranges across niches, including academics, sports, and human psychology.

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