Have you recently noticed any small skin growth that looks like moles on your dog or puppy fur probably while playing or petting your dog at its back? Are wondering or panicking about whether you are about to lose your pet or what it can be?

It is a skin condition called skin tag.

It’s a normal skin growth that happens to dogs, it isn’t harmful or painful not until it starts discomforting your dog through itches or the development of irritations. Then, it will be right to contact your veterinarian.

To know more about these ingrowths, read on as we will walk you through every detail including what to do and how best to care for your dogs to avoid the reoccurrence of the problem.

What Are Skin Tags In Dogs?

Skin tags in dogs refer to those benign growths like tumours which are usually found on the surface of the skin and are relatively common to dogs as well as other animals such as cats. This kind of skin problem is mostly found in much older animals. 

It has some other medical terms which are used to describe the skin tags, such as acrochordon, fibroepithelial polyp and fibrovascular papilloma. These skin tags can grow or develop anywhere on the dog’s body though, in most cases, they frequently occur in certain areas such as the head, neck and chest. 

They can be variable in size and shape but are often long and thin, sometimes having a narrow stalk attaching them superficially to the skin. 

Furthermore, they are not noticed in the body of the dog not until they are felt either while bathing or petting the dog. This is mostly because they are very small pieces of skin attached to a small stalk-like structure.

They are usually only a few millimetres in size, moveable, and not painful. They can be either pink or darker in colour. They can also occur alone or in a group. 

However, when you come across them on the skin of your dog, there’s no need to panic as they aren’t considered an emergency or cancerous as they are completely harmless. But most importantly, even without being treated, it can’t cause any harm.

However, if it appears at a spot or place on the dog’s skin which will cause your dog to rub or irritate, then I will recommend that you take the dog to a veterinarian and have it cut off to avoid further discomfort.

Differences Between Skin Tags And Other Skin Conditions

Apart from the skin tags that grow on the skin of your dog, there are some other skin conditions which usually happen to look-alike and sometimes, they are mistaken as another. Below, we will clarify the differences.

Some of these skin conditions include the following

A. Cysts

This is a type of skin condition that looks firm or soft depending on what’s inside. They are usually more attached and larger than skin tags. However, some cysts can have a small attachment like a skin tag but will usually get larger over time. 

Furthermore, ensure that you monitor the skin tags on your dog for any changes, and if you notice the growth changing, or becoming larger, or you see many of them on your dog’s body, visit your veterinarian immediately 

B. Ticks

Another skin condition is called ticks. This is a parasite that can hide underneath your dog’s skin to feed on its blood.

As the tick feeds, its body swells up to the point where its presence can be noticed and also look similar to skin tags.

For easy identification of the difference, you can look clearly and discover the small legs from the body.

Furthermore, it’s often painful when your dog has a tick. If they react when they touch the skin tag. it is more likely to be a tick. It’s important to have ticks professionally removed as if you try to do so yourself you may leave the head buried in the skin, resulting in extreme irritation.

C. Warts

This is another skin condition that can be found on your dog’s skin. It looks very much like a skin tag that makes it be mistaken for cancerous tumours.

They are caused by an infection with a virus known as canine papillomavirus, and they are generally harmless to your dog. However, it is still important to have them checked by your veterinarian.

D. Nipples

Skin tags can be easily mistaken for your dog’s nipples. Both male and female dogs have nipples, and females’ nipples will often enlarge when they are in heat. This is often the time that owners will mistake a nipple for a skin tag. 

What Causes Skin Tags On Dogs?

There are no major causes of skin tags on dogs. They tend to be more common in older dogs than younger dogs. Some breeds such as cocker spaniel have a higher likelihood of forming skin tags as it is genetic to them.

However, let’s look at some of the major factors that can cause skin tags on your dogs. They include

A. Irritation

Skin tags can be caused by chronic irritation. That’s why they are often seen in pressure areas such as their chest, knees, and elbows. 

Another scenario that can lead to skin tags occurring is if a collar or your dog harness rubs the skin repeatedly which might be a symptom of flea allergy, food allergy, or environmental allergy. It can also cause biting and scratching in one part of the skin. 

When you notice this, it is a clear indication that there is a presence of skin tags on your dog.

B. Virus

Some viruses such as the papillomavirus can cause skin tag lesions. As it can cause warts, but occasionally, they can cause skin tags. 

They can be cured through the removal of the skin tag or wart. If there are multiple skin tags are bothersome to the dog, antiviral medications can be used.

C. Parasites

Some parasites love to attach themselves to other animals while feasting on their blood. Examples of these parasites are lice, mites, ticks, and fleas. These pests can infest the skin of your dog and cause your dog’s skin to itch.

However, dogs will try to get rid of the itch by scratching their skin. If the itches are not addressed at once, it may cause skin damage. Thereby, leading to inflamed wounds and later infection. Soon, skin tags could develop after treating the itch.

D. Too Tight Collars

If your dog’s collar is too tight, his skin will be irritated as it will be discomforting. The skin will break open if the situation persists and leads to skin damage, including the development of skin tags. This is a common cause of a skin tag on a dog or cat.

E. Genetics

Another cause of skin tags is genetic factors such as the breed line of your dog is prone to skin tags, then your dog will most likely develop them. Some dogs may also inherit skin tags from their parents.

F. Poor Diet

A poor diet can cause skin tags to develop in dogs. Without proper nutrition, your dog may develop health problems, including skin conditions such as skin tags. 

Poor nutrition tends to weaken your dog’s immune system. Aside from skin tags, your dog may also develop skin rashes and cracks in his skin.

So, you must feed your dog high-quality food and bring him outside to bask in the early morning sunlight. Exercise should also be part of their regular regimen to keep them healthy.

G. Hygiene

Make bathing a routine for your dog. It is not necessary to bathe your dog every day. However, he should be washed at least once a month to eliminate parasites and irritants from attaching to his skin. Also, avoid overdoing it because you may strip your dog’s skin of the important oils it needs.

Furthermore, too much bathing, especially with harsh products, can strip off the skin’s natural oil which protects it and keeps the coat healthy and shiny. Harsh shampoos can leave the skin dry and prone to infection. This can also further lead to the development of skin tags.

H. Skincare Products

Use caution when applying any skincare product to your dog. Make sure that they are hypoallergenic and free of perfumes and dyes. 

The use of harsh products on a dog may leave their skin irritated and dry, possibly leading to unusual skin growth.

I. Environment

There are substances in your environment that are harmful to your dog’s skin. Substances such as hazardous chemicals, pesticides, and pollution can come into contact with your dog’s skin and cause skin tags to develop. 

Also, if you are residing in a dirty environment, it will cause bacteria and viruses which can adversely affect your dog’s health. 

Furthermore, those areas that are prone to mould also seem to be a trigger, so be mindful of where you place your dog’s house. Endure that clean the environment regularly and air-dry dog sheets and pillows to keep them free of bacteria. 

Doing these will help to maintain a clean and healthy environment which can help the dog’s health.

How To Identify Skin Tags In Dogs

Skin tags are usually harmless and may not require any medical intervention at all. But it’s easy for a skin tag to become irritated, whether it’s because your dog licks or chews at it or the skin tag rubs against a collar or another part of the body.

So, if you notice any of these signs, be sure that it is an indication of the presence of skin tags on your dog. These signs include:

A. Bleeding or discharge around the skin tag.

B. Discomfort or pain when the skin tag is touched.

C. Red, irritated skin on or around the skin tag.

D. Change in the size, shape, or colour of the skin tag.

if these are the signs, then I will recommend that you reach out to your veterinarian although it isn’t harmful or an emergency but it will help your dog to still maintain its regular happy plays and funs instead of leaving them in discomfort.

Book an appointment to have your dog’s skin growth examined as soon as possible. 

Typical Locations Of Skin Tags In The Dog’s Skin

The appearance or signs that show that your dog is experiencing some skin tags is where you notice that it is all over the body but specifically, on the head, neck and chest.

These signs are constant respective of the breed of dog as it is a general spot.

When To Consult A Veterinary Doctor For Your Dog’s Skin Tags

Though skin tags are harmless they can change their appearance and frequency which could mean a more serious condition. 

However, if your dog with skin tags exhibits these changes, then it is the right time to consult your veterinarian for a full examination and diagnosis before it gets out of hand.

A. The skin tag begins to bleed or develops a discharge thereby causing discomfort to your dog.

B. Any changes in size or colour.

C. Additional skin tags forming in the same location.

D. The dog becomes more bothered or appears to be in pain than when it first appeared.

E. Excessive licking, itching or ascribing at the area.

Diagnosis Of Skin Tags In Dogs

If you noticed a skin growth that might be a skin tag, it is best to have the growth checked out by your local veterinarian. While it isn’t considered cancerous, other skin tumours that can mimic the appearance of a skin tag may need to be removed.

A. Fine-Needle Aspirate

Monitored the growth and any further changes in size or colour. Though rare, some skin tags may turn out to be cancerous. Mast cell tumours and lipomas (subcutaneous masses) that develop in dogs may look similar to some skin tags. 

However, a veterinarian should be able to tell with a fine-needle aspirate whether the cells are problematic or benign. 

Furthermore, the lesion by a veterinarian can provide a diagnosis. However, if the veterinarian is unchecked about the cause, then a biopsy will be conducted. As it is the only definite way to diagnose a skin tag.

B. Skin Biopsy Procedure

Biopsies are done by administering a local anaesthetic to the problem area first. If the area where the skin tag is located is sensitive or if the dog is rather aggressive, anaesthesia may be necessary. 

However, local awe means those areas where the problem is located will be numbed, whereas anaesthesia means that the dog will be unconscious for the procedure or surgery. 

If done properly, the dog should not be able to feel anything. The tissue taken out is typically so small that there is no need for stitches or heavy medication.

Once the local anaesthesia has already taken effect, a small portion of the skin will be cut out and taken as a sample. 

However, it’s possible that the entire mass of the spot will be removed. The samples will then be sent to a laboratory for examination by a pathologist or technician.

Treatment Options For Skin Tags In Dogs

Most skin tags on dogs do not require any treatment at all because they are non-cancerous benign growths. However, if they are the result of a virus attached to them, then antiviral drugs can be prescribed to treat the lesions.

Another reason that your dog might start getting treatment is if the skin tag is irritated, bleeding, infected, growing quickly or bothering your dog in any way, then your vet may likely recommend that it has been taken out through surgery. 

A. Surgical Removal

Surgical removal is the only cure for skin tags. The removal can be performed while under generalized or local anaesthesia to reduce the feeling in the areas before the cutting.

However, the use of a local anaesthetic depends on the location and size of the skin tag, as well as the temperament of the dog. 

Furthermore, surgical removal can be performed by excision or cauterization. Excision refers to the cutting off of the attachment of the skin tag, and cauterization uses heat or electricity to burn the tissue attachment.  

After this procedure, a recovery cone or collar is recommended to prevent chewing of the area while it is healing.

Pros

A. It can prevent the skin tags from getting caught on objects or getting pulled when grooming, which may cause bleeding or pain to the dog.

B. It can help to eliminate the risk of infection or inflammation if the skin tags are damaged or irritated.

C. It can help to avoid any serious conditions that may look like skin tags, such as cancerous tumours.

D. It can improve the cosmetic appearance of the dog and make grooming easier.

Cons

A. It may require general anaesthesia or sedation, which can have some risks and side effects for the dog.

B. It may cause some pain or discomfort to the dog after the procedure.

C. It may leave some scars or marks on the skin.

D. It may be costly depending on the number and location of the skin tags.

So, do well to consult your veterinarian about the best options for your dog while you weigh the pros and cons of surgical removal.

B. Cryosugery Removal 

Another method of removal is through cryosurgery. In doing this procedure, nitrous oxide or liquid nitrogen is used to destroy the unwanted tissue by freezing it. 

The tissue then falls off or dissolves within four weeks. The application of intense cold will result in the death of the targeted tissue and the numbing of surrounding sensory nerves, reducing pain and discomfort.

This procedure can be attractive for those dogs who are at an increased risk of complications due to anaesthesia, as only a mild local anaesthetic may be needed. The process is only temporarily painful during the freezing with no pain during recovery. 

Sometimes, the first treatment is not sufficient and may be repeated within two to three weeks.

Pros

A. It is a minimally invasive technique that does not require cutting or stitching.

B. It can destroy the skin tag tissue and prevent or slow down its regrowth.

C. It can be done as an outpatient procedure with local anaesthesia or sedation.

D. It can be less expensive than traditional surgery.

E. It can kill bacteria and other germs that may infect the skin tag.

Cons

A. It can be painful during the freezing phase, as it damages the cells and nerves.

B. It can cause swelling, inflammation, bleeding or infection of the treated area.

C. It can take up to two weeks for the skin tag to die and fall off.

D. It may not be effective for large or deep skin tags, as the freezing may not reach the base of the growth.

E. It may leave scars or marks on the skin.

Before undergoing these procedures or removal methods, you must consult with your veterinarian about the suitability of cryosurgery for your dog and follow their instructions for aftercare.

C. Topical Spray Or Ointment

However, if your dog’s skin tag becomes ulcerated or inflamed due to trauma, your veterinarian may recommend a topical spray or ointment for treatment. The goal of these topical medications is to decrease inflammation and secondary infections, allowing your dog’s skin tag to return to its normal state.

Pros

A. It may help soothe the skin and reduce inflammation or irritation if the skin tag is damaged or infected.

B. It may prevent bacterial or fungal infection of the skin tag or the surrounding skin.

C. It may be easy to apply and does not require surgery or anaesthesia.

Cons

A. It will not eliminate or shrink the skin tag, as it is a benign growth that requires surgical removal.

B. It may cause an allergic reaction or contact dermatitis in some dogs, especially if the product contains salicylic acid or tea tree oil.

C. It may be licked off by the dog or rubbed off by objects, reducing its effectiveness.

D. It may not be suitable for skin tags in sensitive areas such as the eyes, mouth or anus.

Afterwards, do well to consult with your veterinarian before using any topical spray or ointment for your dog’s skin tag and follow their instructions for dosage and frequency.

How To Remove Skin Tags In Dogs

There are two main ways to remove skin tags in dogs. It’s either through a medical procedure or through a natural approach.

However, we always recommend consulting a veterinarian before trying any method, as some skin tags may be signs of more serious conditions that need medical attention.

1. Medical Procedures 

This involves letting a veterinarian perform a procedure to remove the skin tags using one of the following methods:

A. Surgical Excision

This involves cutting off the skin tag with a scalpel or scissors, as close to the skin as possible.

This method is quick and effective, but it may cause bleeding or scarring.

B. Electrosurgery

This involves using an electric current to burn off the skin tag tissue. This method is less likely to cause bleeding or scarring, but it may cause pain or infection.

C. Cryosurgery

This involves using liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy the skin tag tissue. This method is also less likely to cause bleeding or scarring, but it may cause swelling, inflammation or infection.

D. Laser Surgery

This involves using a laser beam to vaporize the skin tag tissue. This method is more precise and minimizes damage to the surrounding skin, but it may be more expensive and require special equipment.

Furthermore, whichever method you choose within the medical line, you must know that it will require local anaesthesia, sedation or general anaesthesia, depending on the size and location of the skin tag and the temperament of the dog. 

Most importantly, the dog may also need some aftercare, such as bandaging, antibiotics or painkillers for future change.

2. Natural Approach

This involves trying some home remedies to remove the skin tag without surgery. However, these methods may not be very effective, safe or reliable as they may cause pain, bleeding, infection or complications to your dog. Some of the natural methods are as follows

A. Dental Floss

This has to do with the tying of a piece of dental floss around the base of the skin tag to cut off its blood supply and make it fall off.

B. Apple Cider Vinegar

This refers to the application of apple cider vinegar to the skin tag with a cotton ball to dry it out and make it fall off.

C. Tea Tree Oil

This is a very effective essential oil. It has to do with the application of tea tree oil to the skin tag with a cotton swab to shrink it and make it fall off.

However, we don’t recommend trying to remove skin tags at home, as this may cause harm to your dog as you may mistake a skin tag for a more serious growth that needs medical attention. 

That’s why you should always consult a vet before attempting any procedures on your dog.

How To Prevent Skin Tags on Dogs

It can be hard to know what we can do to prevent them as not enough evidence shows how some environmental factors can play a role in increasing or decreasing your dog’s chances of initially developing and repeatedly suffering from skin tags. Below are some of those factors.

1. Parasites

Fleas, ticks, and mites are horrid little blighters that result in an itchy dog.

The corresponding scratching will leave your dog’s skin inflamed, raw, and susceptible to infection.

This weakening of the skin makes it easier for a skin tag to develop.

Some of the best ways to prevent parasites on your dog are:

A. Frequently washing your dog’s bed.

B. Keeping the backyard grass cut short.

C. Administering monthly parasite prevention medication.

D. Washing your hands after exposure to soil.

E. Regular visits to your veterinarian with your dog for annual parasite checkups.

2. Diet

Dogs require well-balanced nutrition to maintain a healthy immune system, and this has great-reaching effects from the health of their skin to their ability to defend against infections. So, it’s important to research your dog’s specific nutritional needs and feed them according to those requirements.

You can also seek recommendations from your veterinarian or a canine nutritionist.

3. Allergies

Allergic reactions and intolerances most commonly to food and hygiene products can result in eczema, a skin condition that weakens the dog’s body’s defences.

So, if you should notice that your dog is having issues, try changing their diet, allergy medications, or things like your dog’s shampoo and conditioner.

Furthermore, you can seek help from a veterinarian if it continues.

4. Breeding

Some dogs are born more prone to skin tag conditions than others. You must understand the kind of brew that you have as well as know its genetic history. Such as its sensitivity to the sun or eyesight.

Breeds that are especially susceptible to skin tags include Poodles, Schnauzers, Cocker Spaniels, and Terriers.

Tips For Maintaining A Healthy Dog Skin

You can maintain your dog’s skin by ensuring that you do the following:

1. Supplement Their Diet With Omega Fatty Acids

Omega fatty acids are of great benefit to us all because of their anti-inflammatory properties. 

When incorporated into a diet plan, omega-3 and -6 fatty acids feed the body’s cells with the healthy nutrients that they require to create healthy cell membranes. 

For your dog, it will help to maintain more healthy skin with a coat that looks healthier.

2. Create And Maintain A Regular Grooming Schedule

This is the part where you ensure that your canine has and maintains a healthy coat. 

Brushing your dog regularly even if they are a short-haired breed does more than make their coat look presentable. Brushing also helps to remove some debris buildup in the skin as well as help to identify the areas that need attention and stimulate the oil production by the hair follicles.

However, the rate at which you should brush your dog depends on their breed and their coat type, but a couple of brushing sessions a week will go a long way in keeping your puppy’s coat looking good. 

Furthermore, for regular grooming, most dogs require a bath only every two to six months depending on their lifestyle. 

However, you must avoid over-bathing your dog as it will lead to drying of the skin which causes the oil glands to go into overdrive and your pet will wind up with a very oily coat at the least.

3. Do Not Use Human Products On Your Dog’s Coat

When grooming and bathing, always be sure to use canine-formulated products as they will help your dog’s skin and coat. However, if you are currently using human-formulated products, you should stop as it might have started causing harm without knowing. It will result in having a full coat with itchy skin.

How To Care For A Dog With Skin Tags

Most skin tags pose no danger to your dog. If your dog has a skin tag that is not painful or causing problems, it’s fine to monitor the growth at home with the following recommendations:

A. Do a monthly lump check to see if there are any changes to the skin tag and keep an eye out for any new ingrowths.

B. Keep a journal of your findings and record the date, location of the skin tag, size and any changes in colour, injury or discharge from the skin tag

C. If you notice any abrupt changes, schedule an appointment to have the skin tag evaluated by a veterinarian.

D. If the skin tag is located on an eyelid, monitor the eye for any signs of irritation, such as redness, increased discharge or squinting.

E. If your dog is scheduled for anaesthesia for any reason and the skin tag is bothering them, ask if the skin tag can be removed at the same time.

FAQs

Conclusion

Skin tags on dogs are not a matter of concern as they are harmless and painless. However, if you start noticing discomfort in your dog such as itches, irritations, changes in the colour of the skin tags and bleeding, then it is enough sign to contact your veterinarian immediately. 

There are many methods that you can use to remove the skin tags but the most recommended is the medical procedure which involves a veterinarian as they are experts in case of any further issues.

You can care for and prevent your dog by ensuring that you keep their house and your environment neat, feed them with the right amount of antioxidants, brush them when necessary and many others.