Close-up of a golden retriever's neck showing a small, flesh-colored skin tag hanging from a thin stalk against the dog's fur, photorealistic detail

Can Dogs Have Skin Tags? What Pet Experts Say

If you’ve been petting your furry best friend and felt a small, dangling growth on their skin, you might be wondering: can dogs have skin tags? The short answer is yes—absolutely. Just like humans, our canine companions can develop these harmless little protrusions. But here’s where it gets interesting: while skin tags are generally nothing to panic about, understanding what they are, why they appear, and when you should involve your vet can make all the difference in keeping your pup healthy and comfortable.

Skin tags are incredibly common in dogs, especially as they age. These small, benign growths typically hang from the skin by a thin stalk and are composed of loose skin tissue. They’re not contagious, they’re not cancerous, and they’re definitely not a sign that something is terribly wrong with your dog. However, that doesn’t mean you should ignore them entirely. Let’s dive deep into everything you need to know about canine skin tags, from identification to treatment options.

Whether you’re a first-time dog owner or a seasoned pet parent, this comprehensive guide will help you understand these curious little bumps and determine whether your pup needs veterinary attention. We’ll explore what causes them, how to distinguish them from other skin conditions, and most importantly, what you can do about them.

What Are Skin Tags in Dogs?

Skin tags, medically known as acrochordons or fibromas, are small, benign skin growths that appear as soft, flesh-colored or slightly pigmented bumps hanging from the skin’s surface. Think of them as tiny, harmless dangly bits of skin that serve absolutely no purpose whatsoever. In dogs, these growths are typically small—ranging from a few millimeters to about half an inch in diameter—though larger ones can occasionally develop.

The structure of a skin tag is fairly straightforward. Each tag consists of a core of loose connective tissue and blood vessels, wrapped in a thin layer of skin. The way they hang from a narrow stalk (called a peduncle) is what gives them their distinctive appearance. This stalk can sometimes twist, which might cause discomfort if your dog is particularly active or rough-and-tumble.

What makes skin tags so common in dogs is that they’re essentially just an overgrowth of normal skin tissue. There’s nothing inherently wrong with the cells that comprise them—they’re just multiplying a bit more enthusiastically than they should. This is why veterinarians generally classify skin tags as cosmetic concerns rather than medical emergencies. However, dogs can definitely get skin tags, and understanding their nature helps you decide how to proceed.

What Causes Skin Tags in Dogs?

The million-dollar question: why do dogs develop skin tags in the first place? While researchers haven’t pinpointed a single definitive cause, several factors contribute to their formation. Understanding these triggers can help you potentially minimize your dog’s risk.

Age is a Primary Factor

Senior dogs are significantly more prone to developing skin tags than their younger counterparts. As dogs age, their skin naturally loses elasticity and undergoes various changes. The collagen and elastin that keep skin firm and taut diminish over time, creating conditions favorable for skin tag formation. If your golden retriever is hitting their twilight years, discovering a skin tag or two isn’t unusual—it’s practically a rite of passage into senior dog-hood.

Breed Predisposition

Some dog breeds seem genetically predisposed to developing skin tags more frequently than others. Larger breeds and those with loose, wrinkly skin—think Shar-Peis, Bulldogs, and Basset Hounds—tend to develop them more often. However, any breed can develop skin tags, regardless of size or skin type. This suggests that genetics play a role, though the exact mechanism remains unclear.

Friction and Skin Rubbing

Areas of your dog’s body that experience constant friction are hotspots for skin tag development. Think about where your pup’s skin folds, where their collar sits, or where their legs rub together. These areas experience repeated irritation and movement, which may trigger the skin to respond by forming growths. This is particularly true for overweight dogs, where skin folds are more pronounced and create more opportunities for friction.

Obesity and Weight Considerations

Overweight and obese dogs develop skin tags at higher rates than their lean counterparts. Extra weight increases skin friction, creates more pronounced skin folds, and may trigger inflammatory responses that encourage skin tag formation. Maintaining your dog at a healthy weight through proper diet and exercise isn’t just about preventing skin tags—it’s about overall health and longevity.

Hormonal Factors

Some research suggests that hormonal imbalances might contribute to skin tag development in dogs. Conditions affecting the endocrine system could potentially trigger abnormal skin growth. While this theory needs more investigation, it’s worth considering if your dog develops multiple skin tags or has other signs of hormonal issues.

Senior labrador retriever sitting peacefully in natural sunlight, showing various areas of loose skin folds on neck and body, warm outdoor setting

How to Identify Skin Tags vs. Other Skin Issues

One of the biggest challenges dog owners face is distinguishing skin tags from other skin conditions that might require different treatment approaches. This is crucial because while skin tags are benign, other growths might not be. Let’s break down how to tell the difference.

Skin Tags: The Telltale Features

Legitimate skin tags have several distinctive characteristics that make them relatively easy to identify:

Appearance: Small, soft, flesh-colored or slightly darker bumps that hang from a narrow stalk
Texture: Smooth and soft to the touch, not hard or scaly
Location: Typically found on the neck, legs, armpits, or areas with skin folds
Growth pattern: Usually remain the same size over time, though new ones may occasionally appear
No discharge: They shouldn’t bleed, ooze, or produce any discharge

Distinguishing from Similar Conditions

Several other skin conditions can mimic skin tags, but they require different approaches. If your dog experiences dandruff issues, you’ll notice flaky skin and often itching, which differs significantly from skin tags. Similarly, hot spots on dogs are inflamed, often moist areas that cause visible discomfort—completely different from the innocuous hanging skin of a tag.

Warts are another common source of confusion. Unlike skin tags, warts are typically firmer, more scaly, and often appear in clusters. They’re also caused by a viral infection, making them contagious to other dogs. If you notice your dog getting pimples or acne-like bumps, these are usually inflammatory and may be itchy or tender.

When to Consult Your Vet

If you’re uncertain whether a growth is a skin tag or something more concerning, err on the side of caution and schedule a veterinary appointment. Your vet can perform a simple examination or, if needed, take a sample for analysis. Better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your pup’s health.

Veterinarian's gloved hands examining a skin growth on a dog's shoulder during a professional consultation, clinical but friendly atmosphere

Are Skin Tags a Health Risk?

Here’s the reassuring news: skin tags are generally not a health risk to your dog. They’re benign growths that won’t develop into cancer, spread to other parts of the body, or cause systemic health problems. In fact, most veterinarians would classify them as purely cosmetic concerns—something that affects appearance rather than health.

However—and this is an important caveat—there are specific scenarios where skin tags might warrant attention:

Location-Based Complications

If a skin tag is located somewhere that experiences constant irritation, it could become problematic. For instance, a tag on your dog’s eyelid might cause discomfort or interfere with vision. One near the anus could be irritated during defecation. Tags in high-friction areas might become twisted on their stalk, cutting off blood supply and causing pain. These location-specific issues don’t make skin tags dangerous per se, but they do make removal a reasonable consideration.

According to the American Kennel Club’s guide on dog skin problems, benign skin growths like tags rarely cause complications unless they’re in problematic locations or your dog constantly licks and irritates them.

Infection Risk from Irritation

If your dog obsessively licks, chews, or scratches at a skin tag, they could cause minor bleeding or create an entry point for bacteria. This is more likely in dogs with anxiety or compulsive behaviors. While a secondary infection is unlikely, it’s possible if the area isn’t kept clean.

Monitoring for Changes

While skin tags themselves aren’t risky, it’s always wise to monitor any skin growth. If a tag suddenly changes appearance, starts bleeding, grows rapidly, or becomes inflamed, these could be signs that it’s something other than a benign tag. This is when veterinary evaluation becomes important.

Treatment and Removal Options

Since skin tags are benign and generally don’t cause health problems, treatment is entirely optional and depends on your preferences and your dog’s specific situation. However, several options exist if you decide removal is warranted.

Veterinary Removal Procedures

The most common and safest method of skin tag removal is through a veterinarian. Your vet can employ several techniques:

Surgical Excision: Using sterile instruments, your vet removes the tag and the stalk completely. This is typically done under local anesthesia and is the most reliable method for complete removal.
Cryotherapy: Freezing the tag with liquid nitrogen causes it to fall off naturally over several days. This is less invasive than surgical removal but may require multiple applications.
Cauterization: Using heat or electrical current to burn off the tag. This method seals the wound and reduces bleeding.

Any removal procedure performed by a veterinarian should be done under appropriate anesthesia and with proper sterilization protocols. Your vet will discuss which method is best for your dog’s specific situation, considering factors like the tag’s location, size, and your dog’s overall health.

At-Home Treatments: Proceed with Caution

While the internet is full of DIY skin tag removal suggestions—from tying them off with thread to applying various topical substances—veterinarians generally advise against at-home removal. Here’s why:

Risk of infection from non-sterile techniques
Potential for excessive bleeding
Incomplete removal leading to regrowth
Causing pain or distress to your dog
Damaging surrounding healthy tissue

Even though skin tags are benign, attempting removal yourself could introduce complications that make professional intervention necessary anyway. It’s better to invest in a single professional procedure than risk multiple vet visits due to complications.

Cost Considerations

Professional skin tag removal costs vary depending on your location, your vet’s fees, and the number of tags being removed. Typically, you’re looking at anywhere from $100 to $500 for the procedure, including anesthesia and post-operative care. Many pet insurance plans don’t cover cosmetic procedures, so check your policy before scheduling.

Prevention Tips for Dog Owners

While you can’t completely prevent skin tags—especially if your dog is genetically predisposed—several strategies can potentially minimize their development:

Maintain a Healthy Weight

This is perhaps the most impactful prevention strategy. Obesity significantly increases skin tag risk through increased friction and inflammation. Work with your veterinarian to determine your dog’s ideal weight and maintain it through balanced nutrition and regular exercise. A lean dog not only has fewer skin tags but also enjoys better overall health and longevity.

Regular Grooming and Skin Care

Keeping your dog’s skin clean and well-maintained can help reduce the conditions that favor skin tag development. Regular bathing with a gentle dog shampoo, thorough drying (especially in skin folds), and occasional brushing help maintain healthy skin. Pay special attention to areas prone to moisture and friction.

Proper Collar Fit

Ensure your dog’s collar fits properly—snug enough to be secure but loose enough to fit two fingers underneath. A poorly fitting collar creates constant friction around the neck, an area where skin tags commonly develop. Consider using harnesses instead of collars for dogs prone to skin issues.

Monitor Skin Folds

For breeds with naturally occurring skin folds, keep these areas dry and clean. Moisture trapped in folds creates an environment where various skin issues, including potential tag formation, are more likely. Gently dry folds after bathing or swimming.

Regular Veterinary Check-ups

Annual or bi-annual vet visits allow your veterinarian to monitor your dog’s skin health and catch any concerning growths early. Your vet can distinguish between benign tags and potentially problematic growths, giving you peace of mind. For senior dogs, more frequent check-ups become increasingly important, particularly if you’ve noticed signs of illness or other health changes.

Manage Underlying Conditions

If your dog has allergies, hormonal imbalances, or other conditions that affect skin health, managing these effectively may help reduce skin tag development. Work closely with your vet on any underlying health issues.

The ASPCA’s resource on common dog skin problems emphasizes that maintaining overall skin health through proper care is the foundation for preventing various skin issues, including skin tags.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are skin tags on dogs painful?

Skin tags themselves are not painful. However, if your dog constantly licks or chews at a tag, or if the tag becomes twisted on its stalk (cutting off blood supply), discomfort can develop. Additionally, tags in sensitive locations might cause irritation. Most dogs show no signs of discomfort from their skin tags.

Can skin tags fall off on their own?

Yes, occasionally skin tags can fall off on their own, especially if they become twisted on their stalk and the blood supply is cut off. However, this shouldn’t be relied upon as a removal method, and allowing this to happen naturally could lead to bleeding or infection if the area isn’t kept clean.

Do skin tags grow back after removal?

Properly removed skin tags don’t grow back, but new skin tags can develop elsewhere on your dog’s body. Recurrence is rare if the entire tag, including the stalk and root, is completely removed. However, if you’re prone to developing them, you may notice new ones appearing over time.

Is there a connection between skin tags and cancer in dogs?

No, skin tags are not cancerous and do not turn into cancer. They’re benign growths composed of normal skin tissue. However, if you notice any growth changing rapidly, bleeding, or becoming inflamed, have your vet evaluate it to rule out other conditions.

Can I use over-the-counter treatments to remove my dog’s skin tags?

Most over-the-counter treatments marketed for skin tag removal in humans aren’t appropriate for dogs and may cause harm. Always consult your veterinarian before using any topical treatments on your dog. Professional removal through your vet is the safest and most effective approach.

At what age do dogs typically develop skin tags?

While skin tags can develop at any age, they’re most common in senior dogs—typically those over seven years old. However, younger dogs, particularly those predisposed by breed or genetics, can develop them too. Some dogs may never develop skin tags, while others may have multiple.

Should I be concerned if my young dog has a skin tag?

Not necessarily. While skin tags are more common in older dogs, younger dogs can develop them, especially if they’re overweight or have a genetic predisposition. Monitor the tag to ensure it doesn’t change, and have your vet evaluate it during a routine check-up to confirm it’s benign.

Can I prevent my dog from licking a skin tag?

If your dog is obsessively licking a skin tag, consider using an Elizabethan collar (cone) to prevent access while you arrange for veterinary evaluation or removal. You can also try redirecting their attention with toys or training. If the licking is compulsive, discuss this behavior with your vet, as it might indicate underlying anxiety or other issues.