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Skin tags are small, benign growths that can appear on any dog of any breed, gender, and age.
Some breeds are more susceptible to them, and certain environmental factors can also play a role.
Even if these growths are harmless, there are a few things all pet owners must know about skin tags on dogs and what to do (or not do) about them.
Skin Tags on Dogs: What Are They?
Skin tags are also known as papillomas, skin polyps, and acrochordons.
They are benign tumors that can appear as fleshy growths anywhere on your dog’s body.
Occurring in different shapes and sizes, they are usually only millimeters long.
This is what a skin tag on a dog looks like:
A dog's skin tag most often appears as a small circular growth, a long, thin growth, or a flat growth alongside the affected area.
These lumps can be worrying for a pet owner to find, with many owners immediately fearing the worst.
However, they are not cancerous and are completely harmless.
These growths are not contagious; you don't need to worry about your pooch contracting skin tags from another dog.
A skin tag won’t show outward signs other than the lump itself.
However, you'll need to keep an eye on that growth.
Monitor the tag for how it's developing and growing, its discoloration, and its inflammation status.
You should also look for any other lumps that are growing on your dog's body.
If any unusual thing comes up, talk to your vet!
RELATED: 9 Common Dog Skin Problems (How to Prevent and Treat Them)
Causes of Skin Tags on Dogs
There is not enough scientific research on the causes of skin tags on dogs; however, some studies with people have found a few culprits.
For example, a 2008 study found that human papillomavirus, or HPV, may cause their development.
A 2010 study found that high levels of triglycerides in the body, large body mass index, and insulin resistance may also cause skin tags to develop.
Any dog of any age, gender, breed, and health can develop skin tags on its body.
Still, some outside factors can increase or decrease its likelihood of developing them, including the following:
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 that skin area makes it easier for a skin tag to develop.
2. Skincare
Neglecting a dog's skincare routine can cause dry, itchy skin, which can easily become inflamed and infected if your pet begins to scratch.
This is when the risk of developing skin tags increases.
Sticking to a proper skincare routine is important, no matter how hardy your dog may appear.
As a rule of thumb, professional groomers recommend that you bathe your dog once per month.
This allows your dog's skin time to build up the natural oils that help keep the skin and coat healthy.
RELATED: How To Bathe A Dog 101: A Step-By-Step Video Guide
3. Diet
Dogs require well-balanced nutrition to maintain a healthy immune system, which has far-reaching effects from the health of their skin to their ability to defend against infections.
Dog food is no longer seen as one size fits all.
Researching your dog’s specific nutritional needs and feeding them according to those requirements is important.
Consider discussing this with your veterinarian or a canine nutritionist.
RELATED: Dog Nutrition 101: What Do Dogs Eat
4. 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 defenses.
If your pet has issues, try changing their diet, allergy medications, or your dog's shampoo and conditioner.
And of course, don't forget to speak with your vet!
RELATED: 13 Most Common Signs of Allergies in Dogs
5. Breeding
Some dogs are born more prone to the skin tag condition than others. Unfortunately, genetics are not something anyone can control.
We can, however, limit the environmental impacts.
Breeds especially susceptible to skin tags include Poodle, Schnauzer, Cocker Spaniel, and Terriers.
How to Spot Skin Tags on Dogs
While skin tags are harmless, they can look very similar to warts, ticks, or some more serious skin conditions, which can be severe and, in some cases, life-threatening.
Unless you have previous experience recognizing dog skin tags, it's recommended that your veterinarian examine the growth for proper assessment.
In most cases, your vet can give you an immediate diagnosis.
If this isn’t as clear-cut, they will likely perform a simple biopsy to rule out other possibilities.
What Dog Skin Tags Are Not…
Inexperienced owners will often jump to conclusions and assume the worst.
So here are some of the common things that you may confuse skin tags for (and which they are not).
Malignant Tumors
Skin tags are NOT malignant tumors.
There are also some differences in the appearance of a skin tag and a cancerous tumor.
Cancerous tumors will often have a clear or white discharge and be larger in diameter.
RELATED: What Do Cancer Moles on Dogs Look Like?
Warts
Skin tags are NOT warts.
Warts are most common in young dogs and can be contagious, whereas skin tags are not.
For that reason, you should be cautious when inspecting any lump.
The standard form of warts has a cauliflower-like appearance.
RELATED: Warts on Dogs: The Complete Guide
Ticks
Skin tags are NOT ticks.
These little bloodsuckers can be tricky to see when small and difficult to distinguish from tumors once they fill up on blood and grow large.
A tick starts as a small black lump and grows paler and larger as time passes.
As ticks irritate the dog, check red or inflamed areas thoroughly.
RELATED: What Does a Tick Look Like on a Dog?
How to Remove Skin Tags on Dogs
Skin tags on dogs are akin to non-cancerous moles on humans and cause no harm, even when left untreated.
However, if the tag is in an area that causes discomfort to your dog, like under its collar, on its paw, or near its genitals, then it’s worth having the skin tag removed.
Also, having a skin tag around sensitive areas like the eye or an eyelid can cause complications and even damage the eye itself.
In this case, removing it might be considered medically necessary.
You can have your vet surgically remove it or do it at home, but only with your vet's approval and guidance.
Remember: this can cause distress and even pain to your dog because you'll directly affect their skin.
It can also cause a fair amount of bleeding, as small blood vessels often hide inside the skin tag, which can become infected.
Leaving the procedure to an expert is better if you think you can't handle this.
Removing Skin Tags on Dogs at Home
Method #1: Tying
This option is only doable if your dog’s skin tag is long enough to tie off.
If it is and you're ready to do this yourself, you will need the following supplies:
- rubbing alcohol
- scissors (any scissors will do)
- dental floss (unscented, for tying)
- a new razor (to shave the area)
- cone collar (or inflatable collar)
You will need two people to do this: one helper to calm the dog and yourself to tie off the tag.
Begin by asking the helper (ideally someone your dog knows well) to stroke and calm your pooch whilst you gather up the necessary supplies.
- Start on a clean floor with a clean dog. Have the pet lie in a comfortable position where you can easily access the skin tag.
- Carefully shave the area surrounding the tag, and clean the entire area thoroughly with rubbing alcohol.
- Take a piece of dental floss (unscented to avoid irritation), and tie it around the skin tag base (be sure to do this as close to the skin and as tightly as possible).
- Be prepared for some struggle. This will cause your dog some distress, and they may whine and try to run away for a few minutes until the pain subsides.
- Before letting the dog go, it’s important to put a cone collar on them so your pup doesn’t fuss with the area.
In approximately two to four days, the skin tag should fall off.
The tag falling off will cause your dog minimal discomfort, but they likely won’t notice it.
Method #2: Surgical Scissors
The most common DIY skin tag removal method is using curved/mayo scissors like these.
You will also need the following supplies:
- rubbing alcohol
- a bowl large enough for the scissors to lie flat in
- cotton pads
- a new razor
- pair of mayo scissors
- styptic pencil (or styptic powder)
- 10% iodine solution
- gauze
- bandages
You will also need another helper who knows the dog well to keep them calm.
- Start by placing the surgical scissors into the clean bowl filled with water, enough to soak them fully.
- Add one teaspoon of iodine solution to the bowl, and let the scissors sit for at least one minute.
- On a clean floor with a clean dog, shave the skin tag region and wipe the entire area thoroughly with rubbing alcohol.
- Once shaven, ensure your helper holds the dog firmly and keeps it calm.
- You can now take the scissors from the bowl to cut the skin tag at its base.
- After you cut off the skin tag, immediately press a gauze firmly against the wound to ease the bleeding. Hold this in place for at least 10-15 seconds.
- Take your styptic powder or pencil (like this one) and apply it directly to the bleeding site. This will cause the blood vessels to contract and help stop the bleeding.
- Carefully place a gauze over the wound and bandage it.
Attach a recovery cone or inflatable collar before letting your dog run free after the procedure to avoid scratching and potential infection.
Veterinary Removal of Skin Tags on a Dog
There are two major selling points for seeking veterinary assistance instead of removing a skin tag by yourself at home:
(a) The expertise of your veterinarian; and
(b) Your dog will be given an anesthetic to numb the pain.
However, most vets will advise against removing tags, especially if they don't see it as medically necessary.
Any surgical procedure, big or small, comes with risks. Your dog's age, health, and medical history will also have to be taken into account.
Once you and your vet have decided on a plan of action, the removal is similar to the surgical scissor option we went through above.
However, your dog will be anesthetized, and a more precise tool will be used instead of scissors to remove the skin growth.
Your veterinarian or vet nurse may apply antiseptic or antibiotic cream to prevent infections.
They will then bandage your pooch, put on a recovery cone collar, and send you and your dog on your way.
RELATED: Dog Wart Removal: Step-by-Step Guide
How to Prevent Skin Tags on Dogs
There isn't enough conclusive research to adequately explain the cause of skin tags, so knowing how to prevent them can be difficult.
However, as discussed above, some environmental factors can affect the development of skin tags on your dog's body.
Some of the best ways to prevent skin tags on dogs are to minimize friction and irritation, including:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Ensuring proper collar and harness fit
- Keeping skin folds clean
- Providing soft, supportive bedding
- Frequently washing your dog’s bed
- Ensuring your dog's skin health and cleanliness
- Monthly parasite prevention medication
- Feeding your pup a well-balanced meal for proper nutrition
- Vitamins and supplements for strong immunity
FAQs About Skin Tags in Dogs
No, skin tags are not typically dangerous because they are benign growths.
The biggest risk is that the tag gets caught on something or accidentally cut during grooming, which could be painful for your dog.
RELATED: What to Give My Dog for Pain?
While it is theoretically possible for skin tags to be cancerous, it is incredibly unlikely.
They are almost always benign.
RELATED: How Do Dogs Get Cancer?
If you want to go the natural route, you can use apple cider vinegar to remove the tags.
Soak a cotton ball or swab in the vinegar and apply it to the skin.
Use a bandage to hold it in place for about 15 or 30 minutes.
Remove it, and then wash your dog’s skin.
Do this once a day for a few weeks, and the tag should fall off.
Vets aren’t positive why these tags occur, but they may be related to inflammation or damage to the skin from ticks, fleas, mites, and lice.
A poor-fitting collar, poor nutrition, or irritants may also be blamed for these skin growths.
Can I cut a skin tag off with nail clippers?
Cutting off a skin tag using nail clippers is not advisable unless your veterinarian gives you the go-ahead.
If you do this, properly sterilize the clippers beforehand.
This will be painful for your dog, and it can lead to infection without sterilization.
Skin Tags on Dogs: Before You Go…
Skin tags on dogs are rarely a reason for any concern.
Sure, they don’t look very pretty, and they might initially shock you when you feel something fleshy.
But that doesn’t mean they must be removed since they are often not cancerous and completely harmless.
If you have decided that there is a valid reason for removing a dog skin tag, seek advice from your veterinarian.
If you decide to remove the skin tag yourself, be completely certain to do it properly and safely.
Ensure you have the right equipment, a steady hand, and someone to help you.
Have you encountered a skin tag on your dog? How did you go about it?
We'd love to read your experience in the comments section!
You can also read some of our recommended and related articles below.
Related Articles:
- How I Keep My Dog's Skin and Coat Healthy
- 6 Common and Serious Dog Skin Conditions (And What to Do About Them)
- How to Feed Dogs with Sensitive Skin
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