What is the Sore Under My Dog's Arm?

Most indicators of a dog's health stem from the condition of their skin and coat. Take notice if your dog is licking, scratching or biting in certain areas, particularly in the pit under his front legs. If so, this could indicate conditions that need to be diagnosed and treated. The most important thing to do is to observe your pet's behavior and have it checked out by a veterinarian. Vets can perform skin scrapings and tests to diagnose skin disorders in dogs.

  1. Hot Spots

    • Your dog could be suffering from hot spots, also known as moist dermatitis, a common skin condition among dogs. The affected area is "hot," irritated and inflamed. The dog's natural tendency is to lick and chew this spot, which only makes it worse. This condition mostly affects dogs with thicker fur who are about to shed because this is when the damp fur gets matted against the skin. Treatment involves the vet cutting hair away from the spot and cleaning it with medicated shampoo, as well as prescribing a steroid cream and antibiotics. Completely drying a dog with a towel after a bath or a swim helps prevent moist dermatitis from developing.

    Allergies

    • Intense itching is usually the first sign of allergies in dogs. Allergies are triggered by the environment, food or anything the dog has come in contact with, stemming from fleas, inhaled substances or direct exposure to the irritant. The key factor with allergies is determining the source. If you suspect fleas, then flea dips, baths, rinses or ointments will eliminate the problem. If it is food, alter the dog's diet. If you think it is something the dog is coming in direct contact with, remove the source so see if it alleviates the problem.

    Sarcoptic Mange

    • Sarcoptic Mange, known as canine scabies, features symptoms of severe itching and hair loss. Scabies are mites that burrow into skin, living on dogs where their fur is sparse. Sarcoptic Mange is extremely contagious among pets. Treatment to eliminate mites involves applying medicated rinses and ointments, as well as thoroughly cleaning the dog's bedding.

    Harnesses

    • Harnesses can cause irritated red sores in dogs' armpits. The strap rub against the dog's skin, leading to red, irritated sections and hairless patches. Make sure your finger will fit between the harness and the dog's skin. Also, don't leave harnesses on all the time; use it only on walks and when venturing outside. Keeping the harness clean at all times is important because dirty harnesses can cause a bacterial infection.