many small lumps on her back

by Davy
(Denmark)

Hi all

I have a cocker spaniel puppy only 2 weeks old, and i've noticed a lot of small lumps / bumps on her back.

anyone have any ideas?

Thanks Davy



Hi Davy
I'm afraid I can't say what's causing these lumps, there are so many different sorts of lumps/bumps and so many possible causes!

Could it be flea bites? If the momma (or her surroundings) have fleas, the puppies will get bitten too.

It could be an allergy to something, but as this puppy is likely nursing from her momma, it would have to be something environmental or contact related. For example, a reaction to the material the whelping box is made of.

Puppies sometimes get a rash on their bellies, from being licked excessively, or sleeping on a damp surface. This is a generally a staph infection and can be treated by your vet with antibiotics. It's unusual to see this on a puppy's back though, under the hair.

Mange is another possibility. This is a skin condition caused by tiny mites.

If the lumps are large, they could be cysts of some sort, most likely benign.

Any of these conditions is best diagnosed by a veterinarian, so I would suggest that you take your little girl to your vet soon so that she can get treatment if necessary.

Best of luck.