How to Remove Excess Skin Tags on Dogs

Excess skin tags are benign skin tumors that any dog breed may develop as they age. These growths can appear at various locations on a dog’s body but are commonly found around the knees, hips, armpits, and the sides of the front legs. While these skin tags are harmless, they may cause cosmetic concerns or get scratched if caught, potentially leading to infection. Keep in mind that although complications from these skin tags are rare, it’s best to consult a veterinarian before attempting any removal at home.

Recognizing Skin Tags. These growths in dogs are often mistaken for warts, a more dangerous type of growth that can turn malignant. Unlike warts, skin tags are attached by a small stalk that dangles from the skin. They are flat or teardrop-shaped and match the dog’s skin color.

Clean the area surrounding the skin tag. Trim the fur around the tag if needed. Shave off any remaining hairs to ensure the skin is fully clean and clear.

Disinfect the area. Use 70% isopropyl alcohol and 10% povidone-iodine to clean the skin tag and its surrounding skin. Soak cotton balls with at least 5 ml (one full teaspoon) of each solution, then gently wipe the tag and the surrounding skin.

Ask someone to help hold and calm the dog. The dog needs to remain still for a safe removal of the skin tag. Look for someone that the dog knows well to help keep it calm and at ease during the process.

Prepare a sterilization tray. If you're going to cut off the skin tag, sterilize a pair of curved Mayo scissors, or if you're going to tie it off, sterilize a piece of thread. You can use a shallow plastic tray (or even a food container) for this task. First, add about 250 ml of water, then mix in 10 ml of povidone-iodine. Immerse the scissors in the solution for around a minute to disinfect.

• Using curved scissors is vital, as it allows you to cut the tag as close to the stalk as possible.

Cut the base of the growth if you want to remove it immediately. Use curved mayo scissors to cut as close to the base as possible, near the skin. It's a good idea to have some gauze prepared to absorb any blood.

Tie off the excess skin growth if you'd prefer it to fall off on its own. Use a clean thread, dental floss, or string, and tie it tightly as close to the base of the growth as possible. Your dog may feel some discomfort at first, but it should subside after a few minutes.

• Check the tied area daily. The growth will swell for about three days, then begin to shrink. Within a week, it will gradually darken and fall off.

Press gauze directly onto the wound. In a clinic, veterinarians may cauterize the wound to prevent infection, but this is difficult to perform at home. Instead, you can press the gauze firmly on the wound for several minutes until you're confident the bleeding has stopped. This method can sometimes be even more effective than cauterization.

Secure the bandage tightly around the wound. First, secure a piece of gauze to stop the bleeding, then use another piece to cover the wound. It should heal within five days, but make sure your dog doesn’t lick or disturb the bandage.

Monitor the wound. Ensure that it isn't becoming infected. If you notice any signs of infection, take your dog to the vet for treatment.

Use a cone collar. If your dog keeps licking at the wound, you can put a cone-shaped collar on them. This collar prevents your dog from biting or licking the area where the growth was removed or tied off.

• Consult a veterinarian before removing excess skin growth from your dog. If the growth is large or located on the face or mouth, it’s best to have a vet handle the removal instead of attempting it yourself.