Skin Tags on Dogs: What They Are, What Causes Them, and When to Worry

By Tasha Mesina, Cindra Grooming Products

If you’ve noticed a growth on your dog’s body, it may be a skin tag. Skin tags on dogs are not uncommon and, much like in humans, they are typically benign.

That said, skin tags should never be ignored entirely. Depending on their location, they can cause discomfort. In some cases, what looks like a harmless skin tag may actually be a wart, tick, or another type of growth that requires veterinary evaluation.

This guide explains what skin tags are, what causes them, how to identify them, and when action is needed.

What Are Skin Tags and Can Dogs Get Them?

Skin tags are abnormal but benign growths that develop on a dog’s skin. They can appear anywhere on the body, but are most commonly found on the neck, chest, face including the eyelids, and legs.

Also known as fibrovascular papillomas, skin tags vary in size, shape, and texture. Some feel soft and flexible, while others may feel firmer. They can be flat, raised, or hang from the skin by a narrow stalk.

Skin tags are usually the same color as your dog’s skin or slightly darker. Most are small and often do not exceed a few millimeters in size, which means they are frequently discovered during petting, brushing, or bathing.

As with any skin condition, it is important to note both the location and condition of the growth. While many dogs are not bothered by skin tags, those located in high-friction areas such as the belly, elbows, or under collars can become irritating or painful.

If a skin tag becomes damaged through pressure or repeated rubbing, it may become inflamed or infected. In these cases, you may notice redness, swelling, or discharge. Avoid touching the area and contact your veterinarian.

What Causes Skin Tags on Dogs?

There is no single cause of skin tags in dogs. They occur across all breeds and ages, although certain factors can make them more likely.

• Life stage. Middle-aged and senior dogs tend to develop skin tags more frequently than younger dogs.
• Breed. Large and giant breeds, as well as Boxers, English Bulldogs, Poodles, and Cocker Spaniels, are more prone to skin tags.
• Chronic irritation or trauma. Skin tags often form in areas where skin rubs against skin, collars, harnesses, or hard surfaces.
• Papilloma virus. While more commonly associated with warts, papilloma virus can occasionally contribute to skin tag development.

In most cases, skin tags are not linked to underlying illness. Monitoring the growth and keeping your veterinarian informed is usually sufficient.

Types of Skin Tags in Dogs

There are several types of skin tags in dogs, although they cannot be identified by appearance alone. Skin tags are classified by the type of skin cells that form them, which can only be confirmed through testing.

Regardless of type, most skin tags are non-life-threatening.

Common types include:

• Fibrovascular papillomas
• Hyperplastic scars
• Fibroepithelial polyps
• Collagenous hamartomas

Dog Skin Tag or Tick?

Skin tags can sometimes resemble ticks, which makes identification important. Ticks are parasites that attach to the skin and feed on blood, potentially transmitting disease.

Ticks vary in size and are typically brown or reddish in color. Unlike skin tags, adult ticks have eight legs and may move if touched. Depending on the size of the tick, a magnifying glass may be needed to identify the legs.

Skin tags do not move and are usually similar in color to your dog’s skin.

Dog Wart vs Skin Tag

Skin tags may also be confused with dog warts, which are caused by canine viral papillomatosis.

Warts are usually firmer, rounder, and may have a rough surface. Skin tags tend to be softer and often protrude away from the skin.

Both are typically benign, but veterinary confirmation is important if you are unsure.

What to Do If Your Dog Has a Skin Tag

In most cases, no immediate treatment is required. Skin tags are usually a cosmetic issue and are not contagious to other dogs or humans.

It is helpful to take occasional photos to monitor changes in size, shape, or color. If your dog avoids being touched near the area, it may indicate irritation.

Contact your veterinarian if the skin tag changes rapidly, becomes painful, bleeds, or shows signs of infection. Your veterinarian may recommend a biopsy, which involves testing cells from the growth to confirm the diagnosis.

Is Skin Tag Removal Necessary?

Skin tag removal is usually not necessary. Exceptions include growths that repeatedly become irritated, interfere with movement, or raise concern for another type of skin condition.

Removal should always be performed by a veterinarian. Home removal is not recommended.

How to Reduce the Risk of Skin Tags

Skin tags are not always preventable, but certain care practices can reduce irritation that contributes to their development.

• Keep skin folds clean and dry
• Use properly fitted collars and harnesses
• Provide supportive bedding, especially for larger dogs
• Manage allergies that cause repeated scratching or biting

Even with good care, some dogs will still develop skin tags. Fortunately, they are rarely dangerous and do not affect overall quality of life.

The Cindra Touch

At Cindra, we view skin changes as signals rather than isolated problems. Many surface issues develop where the skin barrier has been under long-term stress from friction, dryness, or repeated irritation.

Proper grooming does not prevent skin tags, but it supports skin health by reducing buildup, minimizing irritation, and maintaining balance. Gentle cleansing, correct bathing frequency, and coat-appropriate products help protect the skin in areas most prone to friction.

When grooming supports the skin correctly, it becomes easier to recognize when a growth is harmless and when veterinary care is needed.

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