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Red Bumps on the Neck and a Suddenly Fearful Young Dog

by A reader

Reader Question
My 1 year old Shih-poo suddenly developed a few red, raised bumps on the back of his neck. He can't itch them but it seems trying to by itching other parts. The skin is peeling and a few pieces of hair have come off to. He also seems very afraid, almost paranoid and is hiding in unusual spots in the house and not even very hungry or thirsty. He could care less about treats and is just acting very strange.

We can't figure out anything that we have done differently lately or what might have happened? Kind of thinking maybe a bug bite and it scared him? Any ideas?

Thanks!


Answer from Our Team

Red, raised, peeling bumps on the back of the neck can be insect bites or stings, a skin infection, or a reaction to a spot-on flea treatment or collar placed there. The change in behavior is the bigger concern. Hiding, fear and refusing treats and water usually mean he is in pain or feeling unwell.

Neck pain is a common cause of a dog suddenly hiding, acting nervous and not wanting to eat, and it can come from a disc problem or muscle strain, not just the skin. A painful bite or abscess can also do this.

Please have your vet see him soon, today if he won't drink, cries when touched or moves his head stiffly. Note whether he holds his head low or is reluctant to look up, which points to neck pain.

See dog skin conditions.

This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.

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