Blood Blisters on Dog: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Blood blisters on dogs can be a cause for concern for pet owners. These blisters are often the result of an injury or trauma to the skin, and can appear as raised, red bumps filled with blood. While they may not always be a serious issue, it is important to monitor them closely and seek veterinary attention if necessary.

Blood blisters are most common in a dog’s ears, emphasizing how important it is to keep your dog’ ears clean and free of infection. So always make sure you have dog ear hygiene wipes on hand as part of your dog’s typical grooming regime.

To discuss what blood blister on dogs look like, how to know if your dog has a blood blister, and how to treat a canine blood blister, we are going to refer to the American Journal of Veterinary Research and the Manual of Trauma Management in the Dog and Cat for a full overview. We will also touch on when a blood blister could be cancerous and how to know.

It is important to monitor any blood blister on a dog closely. If the blister is small and not causing any discomfort, it may heal on its own within a few days. However, if the blister is large or causing pain, it may require medical attention. A veterinarian may need to drain the blister and prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection.

Understanding Blood Blisters on Dogs

Blood blisters or hematomas are a common condition in dogs that can be caused by a variety of factors. They are usually small, fluid-filled bumps that appear on the skin and can be red, purple, or black in color. In some cases, they may be accompanied by swelling and pain.

When we talk about blood blisters, we usually mean a hematoma, but sometimes it could be a hygroma. Hematomas are usually caused by trauma, such as a blow to the ear or head, while hygromas are often the result of repetitive pressure on the elbows or hocks. Another place you may see a hygroma is in dogs whose tails curl over to far and irritate the part of the body they rub against.

The picture below is of a typical hygroma on a dog’s elbow. This is common on large breed dogs.

It is important to differentiate between hematoma and hygroma, as the treatment for each condition is different. Hematomas may require surgical drainage, while hygromas can often be managed with rest, padding, and anti-inflammatory medication.

If a dog develops a blood blister, it is important to have it evaluated by a veterinarian. In some cases, a biopsy may be necessary to rule out more serious conditions such as cancer.

Types of Blood Blister On Dogs

Aural Hematomas

By far the most common type of blood blister that dogs may develop is an aural or auricular hematoma in the dog’s ear flap (pinna). This occurs when there is bleeding between the skin and cartilage of the ear. Dogs with floppy ears, such as Cocker Spaniels and Basset Hounds, are more prone to developing aural hematomas.

Symptoms of an aural hematoma include swelling of the ear flap, the ear being hot to the touch, pain, and shaking of the head. Treatment may involve draining the blood and suturing the ear flap to prevent further bleeding.

The picture below is a typical example of an aural hematoma. The Pitbull’s ear has swollen so much that it can no longer stand up straight and is falling over.

Scrotal Hematoma

Another type of blood blister that dogs may develop is a scrotal hematoma. This occurs when there is bleeding within the scrotum. Symptoms of a scrotal hematoma include swelling of the scrotum, pain, and difficulty walking.  

They usually happen if there was a complication with the dog during the neutering surgery.  But it can also happen if your dog has infection on their groin they keep scratching, so see our article on rashes on dog groins. 

Also see how to make a dog’s testicles drop naturally.

Treatment may involve draining the blood and applying pressure to the area to stop further bleeding.

Subdermal Hematoma on Body

Dogs may also develop subdermal hematomas anywhere on their body. This occurs when there is bleeding beneath the skin. Symptoms of a subdermal hematoma include swelling, pain, and discoloration of the skin. It typically happens from an injury or if something is constantly rubbing an area, like a badly fitted collar.

Treatment may involve draining the blood and applying pressure to the area to stop further bleeding.

Hematoma on Organs or Brain

In rare cases, dogs may develop hematomas on their organs or brain. This can occur as a result of trauma or other underlying medical conditions. Symptoms may vary depending on the location of the hematoma. Treatment may involve surgery or other medical interventions to address the underlying cause and prevent further bleeding.

Overall, it is important for dog owners to monitor their pet’s health and seek veterinary care if they suspect their dog has a blood blister or hematoma. Early detection and treatment can help prevent complications and promote a speedy recovery.

Can a Blood Blister On A Dog Mean Cancer?

Seeing a blood blister or an unusual lump on your dog’s skin can be pretty alarming. However, it’s not always a signal for panic. It might be something benign (which means not harmful) like a hemangioma or a hematoma. But sometimes, it could be a bit more serious like a vascular tumor, known as a hemangiosarcoma. So, let’s go through the basics to help you understand what these terms mean.

A hemangioma is akin to a birthmark or a mole – it’s a harmless growth that pops up due to an overgrowth of blood vessels. Hemangiomas typically show up as small, firm, red spots or bumps on the skin and don’t usually cause discomfort to your furry pal.

A hematoma, on the other hand, is more like a bruise or a blood-filled blister. This happens when blood pools outside a blood vessel, generally because of some sort of injury or trauma. Hematomas create a raised area that may feel squishy and can change color from red to dark blue or purple, just like a healing bruise.

Now, let’s talk about the scarier-sounding one – hemangiosarcoma. This is a type of cancer that affects the cells lining the blood vessels. Unlike the mostly harmless hemangioma, a hemangiosarcoma can be quite serious and usually needs immediate medical attention.

So how can you tell the difference? Hemangiomas are generally uniform red, firm, and don’t change much over time. Hematomas can change color as they heal, might feel squishy, and could be tender to touch. Hemangiosarcomas, on the other hand, can vary in appearance but may present as a rapidly growing, bruised, or bloody mass.

However, and this is crucial, it can be challenging to tell these apart just by looking or feeling them. If you’re unsure about a new or changing lump on your dog’s skin, it’s always best to take your four-legged friend to the vet. They might recommend a biopsy, which is a small procedure where they take a tiny sample of the lump to examine under a microscope. This will help determine if it’s a harmless hemangioma, a simple hematoma, or a more serious hemangiosarcoma.

Causes of Blood Blisters

Blood blisters on dogs can be caused by a variety of factors. Understanding the underlying causes can help pet owners take preventative measures and seek appropriate treatment. The two main causes of blood blisters in dogs are trauma or injury and blood clotting disorders.

Trauma or Injury

Trauma or injury is the most common cause of blood blisters in dogs. This can occur from a variety of sources, including:

• Biting or chewing at the skin;
• Scratching or rubbing against rough surfaces;
• Getting caught in a fence or other tight space;
• Falling or jumping from a height; and
• Being hit by a car or other object.

Dogs that are more active or have a higher risk of injury, such as hunting or working dogs, are more likely to develop blood blisters from trauma or injury. Additionally, dogs with long nails or skin allergies may be more prone to scratching or biting at their skin, leading to blood blisters.

Blood Clotting Disorders

Blood clotting disorders can also cause blood blisters in dogs. These disorders can prevent blood from clotting properly, leading to excessive bleeding and the formation of blood blisters. Some common blood clotting disorders in dogs include:

• Von Willebrand’s disease;
• Hemophilia; and
• Thrombocytopenia.

These disorders can be genetic or acquired, and may require ongoing treatment to manage. Dogs with blood clotting disorders may be more prone to developing blood blisters from minor injuries or trauma.

Overall, blood blisters on dogs can be caused by a variety of factors, but trauma or injury and blood clotting disorders are the most common. Pet owners should take preventative measures, such as keeping nails trimmed and monitoring their dog’s activity, to reduce the risk of injury. If a blood blister does occur, prompt treatment can help prevent infection and promote healing.

Symptoms to Look Out For: What Does a Blood Blister on a Dog Look Like?

Physical Signs

Blood blisters on dogs can appear as small, raised bumps on the skin that are filled with blood. They may be red or purple in color and can be painful to the touch. The blister may also be surrounded by a red or swollen area. In some cases, the blister may burst and release blood or pus.

It is important to note that blood blisters can occur anywhere on a dog’s body, but they are most commonly found on the paws, ears, and mouth. If you notice a blood blister on your dog, it is important to monitor it closely and seek veterinary care if it does not improve or if your dog shows signs of discomfort.

Behavioral Changes

Dogs with blood blisters may exhibit behavioral changes such as licking or chewing at the affected area. They may also be more irritable or lethargic than usual. If the blister is located on the paw, your dog may limp or favor the affected leg. If it’s on the ear, they may shake or tilt their head. The ear flap will also be swollen and hot, but it may not be red like other blood blisters.

It is important to keep an eye on your dog’s behavior and report any changes to your veterinarian. Behavioral changes can be an indication of pain or discomfort, and prompt treatment can help alleviate your dog’s symptoms.

Diagnosis Procedures

Diagnosing a blood blister on a dog involves a thorough physical examination by a veterinarian. The vet will examine the blister and surrounding area to determine the size, location, and color of the blister. They may also ask questions about the dog’s behavior, diet, and medical history.

In some cases, the vet may need to perform additional tests to confirm the diagnosis. These tests may include a biopsy of the blister, blood tests, or imaging tests such as X-rays or ultrasounds.

It is important to note that blood blisters on dogs can sometimes be mistaken for other skin conditions such as tumors or abscesses. Therefore, it is crucial to have a proper diagnosis before beginning any treatment.

If the blister is suspected to be caused by an underlying medical condition, such as an infection or autoimmune disease, further testing may be necessary to determine the root cause. This may involve a more extensive medical workup, including blood tests, urinalysis, and other diagnostic procedures.

Overall, the diagnosis of a blood blister on a dog requires a careful examination and consideration of the dog’s medical history and symptoms. A proper diagnosis is essential to ensure that the appropriate treatment is provided and that any underlying medical conditions are addressed.

Treatment Options

Medical Treatments

When it comes to treating blood blisters on dogs, there are several medical options available. These include:

• Lancing: In some cases, a veterinarian may need to lance the blister to drain it. This should only be done by a professional, as improper lancing can lead to infection or other complications.
• Antibiotics: If the blister becomes infected, a vet may prescribe antibiotics to help fight the infection.
• Steroids: In cases of severe inflammation, a vet may prescribe steroids to help reduce swelling and pain.

Home Remedies

There are also several home remedies that may help treat blood blisters on dogs. These include:

• Epsom salt soak: Soaking the affected area in warm water with Epsom salt may help reduce swelling and promote healing.
• Aloe vera: Applying aloe vera gel to the blister may help soothe the skin and reduce inflammation.
• Witch hazel: Witch hazel has anti-inflammatory properties and can be applied to the blister to help reduce swelling.

It’s important to note that while home remedies may be effective in some cases, they should never be used as a substitute for professional medical care. If a blood blister on a dog is severe or does not improve with home treatment, it’s important to seek veterinary care. Because lancing a hematoma can cause pain and further infection, it’s essential to rather let your veterinarian do the procedure with anesthetic.

Preventive Measures

By following these preventive measures, you can help keep your dog healthy and prevent blood blisters from forming.

When to Consult a Vet About Blood Blisters On A Dog

If a dog owner notices a blood blister on their pet, they may wonder if it is a cause for concern. While some blood blisters on dogs can be harmless, others may require veterinary attention. Here are some situations in which a dog owner should consult a vet about their pet’s blood blister:

• If the blood blister is large or rapidly growing, it could be a sign of an underlying health issue that requires medical attention.
  
• If the blood blister is located in a sensitive area, such as the mouth or genitals, it could be causing the dog pain or discomfort.
  
• If the dog is excessively licking or scratching the blood blister, it could become infected and require treatment.
  
• If the blood blister is accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever, lethargy, or loss of appetite, it could be a sign of a more serious health problem.

In general, it is always better to err on the side of caution and consult a vet if there is any doubt about a dog’s health. A veterinarian can examine the blood blister and determine if it is a cause for concern or if it will heal on its own. They may also recommend treatment options, such as draining the blister or prescribing medication to prevent infection.

Overall, if a dog owner notices a blood blister on their pet, they should monitor it closely and seek veterinary attention if they have any concerns.

Conclusion

In conclusion, blood blisters in dogs can be a concerning issue for pet owners. While they may look alarming, most blood blisters will heal on their own within a few days or weeks. However, it’s important to monitor the blister for any signs of infection or worsening.

If the blood blister is causing your dog discomfort or is located in a spot that may be prone to further injury, it may be necessary to seek veterinary care. Your veterinarian may recommend draining the blister or providing pain relief medication.

Prevention is key when it comes to blood blisters in dogs. Avoiding trauma to the affected area and keeping your dog’s nails trimmed can help prevent future blood blisters. Additionally, providing your dog with a healthy diet and regular exercise can improve their overall health and immune system, reducing the likelihood of developing blood blisters.

Overall, with proper care and attention, blood blisters in dogs can be easily managed and treated. As always, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your dog’s health.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Final Thoughts

In summary, blood blisters on dogs are a common occurrence that can be caused by various factors. While most blood blisters will heal on their own, it is important to monitor them closely and seek veterinary attention if they appear to be growing or causing your dog discomfort.

If you notice a blood blister on your dog, it is important to keep the area clean and dry to prevent infection. You may also consider using a protective covering, such as a bandage or dog boot, to prevent your dog from further irritating the area.

Prevention is key when it comes to blood blisters on dogs. Regular grooming and inspection of your dog’s skin can help you catch any potential issues before they become more serious. Additionally, providing your dog with a healthy diet and regular exercise can help promote overall skin health.

Overall, while blood blisters on dogs can be concerning, they are generally not a cause for alarm. With proper care and attention, most blood blisters will heal on their own without complications.

Meet Your Experts

Tamsin De La Harpe

Author

Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.

Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.