Female Dog Licking Her Vulva Until It’s Red
What can I do to help her quit licking or treat her?
Constant licking usually means something is bothering her, and the licking then makes the skin sorer, so it becomes a cycle. Common reasons include a urinary tract infection, vaginal irritation (vaginitis), skin infection or allergies. A recessed vulva, where the vulva sits partly hidden in skin folds, is another one. It traps moisture and urine and is often linked to repeated infections.
Your vet can examine the area and test a urine sample to find out what is going on. Skin infections may need medicated wipes or other treatment, and a urinary infection needs the right antibiotic. A recessed vulva sometimes improves with weight loss and good hygiene, and some dogs benefit from a small surgery.
Meanwhile, a cone or soft recovery collar will stop the licking and let the skin settle. Keep the area clean and dry, but avoid human creams or ointments unless your vet approves them, as some are harmful if licked. If she is also peeing more often, straining or has blood in her urine, see your vet soon.
See urinary tract infection symptoms in dogs for other signs to watch for.
This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.
