Skin Tags on Dogs: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Updated April 5, 2026

Discovering small, fleshy growths on your dog’s skin can be alarming at first glance. We completely understand that initial moment of worry when you feel something unusual during your regular petting sessions or grooming routine. The good news is that most of these little bumps are likely skin tags – benign, harmless growths that are incredibly common in dogs, especially as they age.

We’ll walk you through everything you need to know about skin tags on dogs, from identifying them correctly to understanding when they need attention and how to keep your furry friend comfortable.

What Are Skin Tags on Dogs?

Skin tags, medically known as acrochordons or fibroepithelial polyps, are small, soft, flesh-colored growths that hang from your dog’s skin by a thin stalk or peduncle. Think of them as tiny skin-colored balloons attached to your dog’s body by a narrow string.

These benign growths are composed of loose collagen fibers and blood vessels, surrounded by skin. They’re completely harmless and don’t cause pain or discomfort to your dog unless they become irritated from rubbing against something or get caught on objects.

Understanding What Causes Skin Tags in Dogs

Age-Related Factors

Just like humans, dogs are more likely to develop skin tags as they age. We typically see them appearing in middle-aged to senior dogs, usually starting around 6-8 years old. The aging process affects skin elasticity and cell regeneration, making older dogs more susceptible to these growths.

Genetic Predisposition

Some dog breeds are simply more prone to developing skin tags than others. Larger breeds and dogs with looser skin often develop more skin tags over their lifetimes. Breeds that commonly develop skin tags include Cocker Spaniels, Bulldogs, Basset Hounds, and other breeds with naturally wrinkled or loose skin.

Friction and Irritation

Areas where skin rubs against skin or where your dog’s collar, harness, or toys create regular friction are prime spots for skin tag development. We often see them in areas such as the neck, armpits, groin, and skin folds.

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal fluctuations can contribute to skin tag formation. Female dogs may be slightly more prone to developing them, particularly after spaying or during other hormonal changes associated with aging.

Identifying Skin Tags: What to Look For

Physical Characteristics

Skin tags on dogs typically appear as small, soft, movable growths that hang from the skin. They can range in size from tiny rice-grain-sized bumps to larger growths about the size of a grape. Most skin tags are flesh-colored or slightly darker than your dog’s normal skin tone.

Key identifying features include:

• Soft, flexible texture
• Attached by a thin stalk
• Painless to touch (unless irritated)
• Move freely when gently manipulated
• Smooth or slightly irregular surface

Common Locations

We most frequently see skin tags in areas where skin naturally folds or experiences friction:

• Neck and collar area – The most common location due to collar rubbing
• Armpits and groin – Natural skin fold areas
• Eyelids and around the eyes – Particularly in breeds with loose facial skin
• Legs and paws – Especially between toes or on leg joints
• Chest and abdomen – Areas that contact the ground when lying down
• Ears – Both inside and around the ear flaps

Size and Growth Patterns

Skin tags typically start very small and may grow slowly over time. Most remain quite small throughout your dog’s life, but some can grow larger, especially if they’re in an area that experiences regular irritation.

When to Be Concerned: Red Flags to Watch For

While most skin tags are completely harmless, there are certain situations that warrant veterinary attention:

Changes in Appearance

Contact your veterinarian if you notice any skin tags that change color, become inflamed, start bleeding without trauma, develop an irregular or rough surface, or begin growing rapidly.

Signs of Irritation or Infection

Watch for skin tags that become red, swollen, or painful to touch, develop discharge or odor, or cause your dog to scratch, lick, or bite at the area excessively.

Location-Specific Concerns

Skin tags near the eyes that interfere with vision, in the mouth or on the tongue, in areas that frequently get caught on objects, or that bleed regularly from normal activities should be evaluated by your veterinarian.

According to the American Kennel Club, “While skin tags are generally harmless, any new growth should be examined by a veterinarian to rule out more serious conditions and ensure proper identification.”

Professional Diagnosis: What to Expect at the Vet

Physical Examination

Your veterinarian will perform a thorough examination of the growth and surrounding skin. They’ll assess the size, texture, color, and attachment method of the skin tag, and check for any signs of irritation or secondary infection.

Diagnostic Procedures

In most cases, experienced veterinarians can identify skin tags through visual and physical examination alone. However, if there’s any doubt about the nature of the growth, they may recommend:

• Fine needle aspiration – A quick procedure to collect cells for microscopic examination
• Biopsy – Removal of a small tissue sample for definitive diagnosis
• Cytology – Examination of cells under a microscope

Ruling Out Other Conditions

Your veterinarian will want to distinguish skin tags from other similar growths, such as warts (papillomas), sebaceous cysts, lipomas (fatty tumors), or mast cell tumors. This differential diagnosis is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment approach.

Treatment Options for Dog Skin Tags

When No Treatment Is Needed

Many skin tags require no treatment at all. If they’re small, not bothering your dog, and located in areas where they won’t get irritated or caught on objects, we often recommend simply monitoring them for any changes.

Surgical Removal

When removal is recommended, surgical excision is the most common and effective treatment. This is typically done under local anesthesia for small skin tags or general anesthesia for multiple or larger growths.

The procedure involves:

• Cleaning and sterilizing the area
• Administering appropriate anesthesia
• Carefully cutting the skin tag at its base
• Closing the small wound if necessary
• Applying antibacterial ointment and bandaging

Cryotherapy (Freezing)

For small skin tags, some veterinarians may use liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy the tissue. This method is less invasive than surgical removal but may not be suitable for all skin tag locations or sizes.

Electrocautery

This technique uses electrical current to burn off small skin tags. It’s quick and effective but requires proper anesthesia and may not be appropriate for skin tags in sensitive areas.

Post-Treatment Care and Recovery

Immediate Post-Surgical Care

After skin tag removal, your dog will need some special attention to ensure proper healing. Keep the surgical site clean and dry for the first few days. Follow your veterinarian’s instructions about bathing restrictions, typically you’ll need to avoid getting the area wet for 7-10 days.

Preventing Infection

Watch for signs of infection such as excessive redness, swelling, discharge, or a foul odor. Apply any prescribed antibiotic ointments as directed and ensure your dog doesn’t lick or scratch the healing area.

Activity Restrictions

Your veterinarian may recommend limiting your dog’s activity for a few days to prevent the surgical site from opening or becoming irritated. This might include avoiding vigorous play, jumping, or swimming.

Follow-Up Appointments

Most dogs will need a recheck appointment 7-14 days after surgery to ensure proper healing and to remove any sutures, if used.

Prevention Strategies

Regular Skin Checks

Make weekly skin examinations part of your routine care. Run your hands over your dog’s entire body, feeling for any new bumps, changes in existing growths, or areas of irritation. Early detection makes management much easier.

Collar and Harness Management

Ensure your dog’s collar fits properly – you should be able to fit two fingers comfortably between the collar and your dog’s neck. Consider rotating between collar and harness use to reduce constant friction in one area.

Maintaining Skin Health

Keep your dog’s skin healthy through proper nutrition, regular grooming, and maintaining an appropriate weight. Overweight dogs are more prone to skin fold dermatitis and may develop more skin tags in areas where excess skin rubs together.

Environmental Modifications

Remove or pad sharp edges on furniture or structures where your dog might catch skin tags. Keep your dog’s living areas clean and free from rough surfaces that could cause irritation.

Living with Skin Tags: Long-Term Management

Monitoring Existing Tags

Keep a simple log or take photos of existing skin tags to track any changes in size, color, or appearance over time. This information can be valuable for your veterinarian during routine check-ups.

When Multiple Tags Develop

Some dogs develop numerous skin tags as they age. While this can be cosmetically concerning, multiple skin tags are usually benign. Work with your veterinarian to prioritize which ones, if any, should be removed based on location and potential for irritation.

Quality of Life Considerations

Most dogs with skin tags live completely normal, comfortable lives. Only remove skin tags that are causing problems – there’s no medical necessity to remove them simply because they exist.

Cost Considerations and Planning

Factors Affecting Treatment Costs

The cost of skin tag removal varies based on several factors, including the size and number of skin tags, location on the body, type of anesthesia required, and your geographic location. According to JustAnswer veterinary experts, “For the procedure alone, not including pre-operative bloodwork and not sending the sample to the lab, you are looking to spend $300-$500. If you send the tag to the lab for analysis that will be an additional $150.”

Understanding the Difference: Skin Tags vs. Other Growths

Skin Tags vs. Warts

Unlike skin tags, warts (papillomas) are caused by a virus and tend to have a more irregular, cauliflower-like appearance. They’re more common in young dogs and often appear in groups around the mouth.

Skin Tags vs. Cysts

Sebaceous cysts are usually firmer than skin tags and may have a visible opening or “pore” in the center. They can become infected and may discharge material, unlike typical skin tags.

Skin Tags vs. Lipomas

Lipomas are fatty tumors that feel much softer and larger than skin tags. They’re typically round and can be moved around under the skin, rather than hanging from a stalk like skin tags.

How Can Pet Insurance Help You if Your Dog Needs Treatment?

Pet insurance can be a valuable tool in managing the costs of treating a dog’s veterinary expenses. By having a pet insurance policy in place, you can have peace of mind knowing that you can provide medical care for your furry companion without worrying about the financial burden. Pet insurance can help cover the costs of veterinary consultations, diagnostic tests, medications, and even specialized treatments if required.

Reimbursement

This method is the most common for pet insurance companies. You pay out of pocket for the veterinarian bill, and then the insurance company reimburses you for what’s covered under the insurance plan. The steps look like this.

• You pay the vet bill after your dog’s visit.
• You fill out the pet insurance claim form.
• Submit the claim form and other required documentation to the insurer. 
• After the claim is approved, you will be reimbursed for eligible expenses. 

What Does Odie Pet Insurance Cover?

Pet insurance covers various veterinary expenses, providing financial protection and peace of mind for pet owners. Here are the details of the coverage options offered by Odie Pet Insurance:

Illness & Injury Plan

The Illness & Injury Plan is an all-inclusive insurance plan designed to cover a wide range of medical needs for your pet. This plan includes comprehensive coverage for various illnesses, injuries, and veterinary services. Some of the covered items include:

• Veterinary exams and consultations
• Diagnostics (e.g., X-rays, lab tests)
• Prescribed medications
• Surgeries and hospitalization
• Rehabilitation, acupuncture, or chiropractic treatments
• Medically necessary supplies

The Wellness Plan

The Wellness Plan is a monthly membership that focuses on preventive care and covers routine veterinary services.

• Provides reimbursements for routine care items such as wellness visits (exams and vaccines), testing and parasite prevention, dental cleanings and at-home dental care, vitamins, supplements, and more.
• Through Odie’s partnership with Petivity, a leader in smart pet products and proactive care, Wellness Plan members can also receive reimbursements for Petivity devices and health kits, as well as eligible Purina food and supplements.
• Total reimbursement up to $700 per year.