Yes, dogs can get boils, and they form the same way they do in humans
A boil is a painful, pus-filled bump that develops when bacteria infect a hair follicle or oil gland in the skin. Dogs get them just as often as people do, though you may not notice them right away because of their fur. The infection starts small—often as a red, tender spot—and grows over several days as pus builds up underneath the skin.
Boils in dogs are usually caused by Staphylococcus bacteria, the same culprit behind most human boils. They appear most often on areas where your dog's skin rubs against itself, where there is friction from a collar or harness, or where the skin is already irritated from scratching, a cut, or a bite. A dog with a weakened immune system, allergies, or poor grooming habits is more likely to develop them.
The good news is that most boils are not serious if treated early. The bad news is that they are painful, and your dog will want to lick or chew at them—which can make the infection worse and spread bacteria to other parts of the body.
Key Takeaways
- Boils form when bacteria infect a hair follicle or oil gland, creating a painful, pus-filled bump that grows over several days.
- Dogs most commonly develop boils in areas where skin rubs together, where collars or harnesses sit, or where the skin is already irritated.
- A veterinarian should examine any boil that does not drain on its own within a week, grows larger, or shows signs of spreading.
- Keeping your dog's skin clean and dry, checking for cuts or irritation regularly, and fitting collars properly can reduce the risk of boils forming.
- Do not squeeze or lance a boil at home, as this can push bacteria deeper into the skin or cause scarring.
What a boil looks like on a dog
A boil usually starts as a small, red, swollen bump about the size of a pea or marble. It may feel warm to the touch and your dog will likely flinch if you press on it. Over the next few days, the bump grows larger and a white or yellow center may become visible as pus collects underneath the skin.
In the final stage, the boil may rupture on its own and drain pus and blood. This looks messy but is actually a sign the infection is draining. Once drained, the boil should begin to heal within a few days, though a scab will form and the area may stay tender for a week or two.
Because boils are hidden under fur, many owners do not notice them until they find a wet or matted patch of hair, smell an odor, or see their dog constantly licking one spot. Run your hands over your dog's skin during petting or grooming to catch boils early.
Common places boils appear on dogs
Boils tend to form in areas where moisture, friction, or irritation creates the right conditions for bacteria to grow. The most common locations are the armpits, groin, chin, and the folds of skin on wrinkled breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs. Dogs that wear tight collars or harnesses often develop boils right where the collar sits, especially if the collar is wet or dirty.
Boils also appear frequently on the legs and paws, particularly if your dog has been scratching due to allergies or fleas. Any spot where your dog has a cut, scrape, or bite wound is at risk, because the wound gives bacteria an entry point. Dogs that spend a lot of time lying on hard surfaces may develop boils on their elbows or hips from pressure and friction.
When to take your dog to the veterinarian
If you find a boil on your dog, watch it for the next few days. Many boils will drain on their own and heal without treatment. However, you should contact your veterinarian if the boil does not drain within a week, grows larger, spreads to other areas, or if your dog develops a fever or seems lethargic.
You should also see a veterinarian right away if the boil is on your dog's face, near the eyes, or in a location where your dog cannot stop licking it. Boils in these spots can become serious quickly, and your vet may need to drain it and prescribe antibiotics to prevent the infection from spreading deeper into the skin or into the bloodstream.
If your dog develops multiple boils at once or boils keep coming back in the same spot, this suggests an underlying problem—such as allergies, a skin condition, or a weakened immune system—that your veterinarian needs to investigate.
How to care for a boil at home
While the boil is draining or healing, keep the area clean and dry. Gently wash the spot with warm water and mild soap once or twice a day, then pat it dry with a clean cloth. You can explore a warm compress (a clean washcloth soaked in warm water) to the boil for 10 to 15 minutes several times a day to ease pain and encourage drainage.
The hardest part of home care is stopping your dog from licking or chewing the boil. Licking introduces new bacteria, delays healing, and can cause the infection to spread. Use an Elizabethan collar (cone) if your dog will not leave the boil alone. If the boil is on a leg or paw, you can cover it loosely with a clean bandage, though you will need to change the bandage daily and watch for signs of moisture or odor that suggest infection is worsening.
Do not squeeze, lance, or pop the boil yourself. Doing so can push bacteria deeper into the skin, cause scarring, or introduce new bacteria from your hands. Let the boil drain naturally or have your veterinarian drain it under clean conditions if it does not open on its own.
How to prevent boils from forming
Prevention starts with keeping your dog's skin clean and healthy. Bathe your dog regularly with a gentle dog shampoo, and dry thoroughly afterward—especially in skin folds and areas where moisture tends to collect. Check your dog's skin during grooming for cuts, scrapes, or signs of irritation, and treat them promptly.
Make sure your dog's collar and harness fit properly and are not too tight. A collar that is too snug rubs the skin raw and creates the perfect environment for bacteria to grow. Check the fit by sliding one finger under the collar; if you cannot fit a finger, it is too tight. Wash collars and harnesses regularly and replace them if they become worn or damaged.
If your dog has allergies or a skin condition that causes itching and scratching, work with your veterinarian to manage it. Controlling the itching reduces the number of small cuts and wounds that bacteria can use to enter the skin. Keep your dog's living area clean and dry, and wash bedding weekly. If your dog spends time outdoors, check for fleas and ticks regularly, as bites can lead to scratching and infection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are boils contagious between dogs?
Boils themselves are not contagious, but the bacteria that cause them can spread if an infected dog licks another dog's skin or if they share bedding or toys. If one dog in your home has a boil, keep it clean, wash your hands after touching it, and wash the dog's bedding separately from other dogs' bedding.
Can a boil turn into something more serious?
Most boils heal on their own or with basic care, but if the infection spreads into deeper layers of skin or into the bloodstream, it can become serious. Signs of a spreading infection include fever, lethargy, swelling that spreads beyond the boil, or red streaks extending from the boil. Contact your veterinarian when ready if you notice any of these signs.
What will a veterinarian do for a boil?
Your veterinarian will examine the boil and may drain it if it has not opened on its own. They may also prescribe antibiotics if the infection is severe or spreading, or if your dog has a weakened immune system. In some cases, they will take a sample of the pus to identify the bacteria and make sure antibiotics will work.
How long does it take for a boil to heal?
A boil that drains on its own usually heals within one to two weeks. If your veterinarian drains it, healing may be faster. The area will form a scab and may remain slightly tender or discolored for a few weeks after the infection clears.
Can I use human acne or boil treatments on my dog?
No. Many human treatments contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs if licked or absorbed through the skin. Stick to warm compresses and gentle cleaning, and ask your veterinarian before using any product on your dog's skin.