Hard Cysts in a Chihuahua Mix's Armpits
by A reader
Reader Question
My 8 yr old, female Chihuahua/dachsund mix has these wierd cysts/ hard postules in her armpits, has had them for a couple of years.
vet suggests bathing in Oat meal shampoo, (which I do once a week).
Nothing seems to help, she does not seem to be in any discomfort, but it is ugly!
My other 5 yr old female doxy has perfect skin, same diet, same environment.
We just moved a few months ago from a rural to a city environment, no effect on her condition
Her current food is a premium fish, turkey or lamb formula.
vet suggests bathing in Oat meal shampoo, (which I do once a week).
Nothing seems to help, she does not seem to be in any discomfort, but it is ugly!
My other 5 yr old female doxy has perfect skin, same diet, same environment.
We just moved a few months ago from a rural to a city environment, no effect on her condition
Her current food is a premium fish, turkey or lamb formula.
Answer from Our Team
Hard little cysts or pustules in the armpits that have been there for years and don't bother her are often blocked hair follicles or oil glands (comedones or follicular cysts), which happen where skin folds and rubs. Some become infected now and then.
Since she isn't uncomfortable, there's no urgency. Ask your vet whether a medicated shampoo that flushes follicles (for example, with benzoyl peroxide) used once or twice weekly would help more than oatmeal. A needle sample of one can confirm what they are.
Don't squeeze them. See your vet if one becomes red, swollen, painful or grows quickly.
See cysts on dogs.
This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.
