How to treat an infection on a dog at home?

Watching your dog lick at a sore spot a little too much can set off alarm bells—those tiny red edges or a bit of discharge might mean an infection is starting. It’s easy to panic, but many mild infections can be managed at home with the right care, as long as you know what to watch for and when to step back.

First, you’ll want to gently clean the area. Start by trimming any fur around the infection with blunt-nosed scissors—this keeps dirt from getting trapped and makes it easier to see what you’re dealing with. Then, use a mild saline solution to flush the wound. Avoid hydrogen peroxide or iodine; they can irritate healthy tissue and slow healing. Pat the area dry with a clean cloth—rubbing might cause more discomfort.

After cleaning, a pet-safe antiseptic ointment can help keep bacteria at bay. Look for products labeled specifically for dogs, as some human creams (like those with hydrocortisone) can be toxic if licked off. Once the ointment is applied, you’ll need to stop your dog from licking it away. A cone collar might seem like a hassle, but it’s worth it—constant licking introduces more bacteria and prevents the wound from closing. If your dog hates the cone, soft recovery collars or even a onesie for small breeds can work too.

Keeping an eye on the infection is just as important as treating it. Check the area twice a day for changes: is the redness spreading? Is there more pus or a foul smell? Has your dog started acting lethargic or refusing food? These can be signs that the infection is getting worse, and that’s when home care isn’t enough. Even if you’re following all the steps, some infections—especially deep ones or those near joints—need professional attention.

It’s also key to remember that not all infections are the same. A small cut that gets infected is different from a hot spot or an ear infection, which might need specific care. For ear infections, for example, you’d use a vet-recommended ear cleaner instead of saline, and never put anything into the ear canal without guidance. And always steer clear of giving your dog human antibiotics—they can be dangerous, even fatal, depending on the type.

Local regulations often stress that proper pet care means knowing your limits. While home treatment is fine for minor issues, letting an infection linger can lead to bigger problems, and neglect might even run afoul of laws that require animals to receive necessary medical care. Your vet can prescribe antibiotics or other treatments that target the specific bacteria causing the issue, which home remedies can’t always do.

Seeing your dog perk up as the infection clears is rewarding, but that reward comes from balancing careful at-home care with knowing when to call the professional. With patience, observation, and a little TLC, you’ll help your pup get back to chasing tails and napping in the sun in no time.