Category: Canine

Acral lick dermatitis, acral lick furunculosis.
Lick granuloma.

AffectedAnimals:
Acral lick granuloma may affect dogs of both sexes and all breeds; however, males or dogs that are older than five years are more often affected. Breeds disposed to this condition include the Great Dane, Doberman pinscher, Labrador retriever, golden retriever, German shepherd, and Irish setter.

Overview:
A commonly seen skin disorder of dogs, acral lick granulomas are skin wounds that are worsened by a dog's constant licking of the affected area. Because the repeated licking hinders resolution of the lesion, dogs must be prevented from licking the acral granuloma until the wound has healed completely. Acral lick granulomas have a variety of possible causes. The disease is often bothersome to owners as well as their dogs. A veterinarian can implement appropriate medical therapies to treat the lick granuloma and to prevent recurrence.