Dachshund Skin Bumps: Top 13 Reasons & Best Solutions

Have you ever noticed small bumps on your Dachshund’s skin and wondered what they are? Just like when you get a boo-boo or a mosquito bite, dachshunds can get little bumps too. Dachshund skin bumps not only look scary but they can also grow into a bigger problem if you leave them untreated.

What Causes Those Dachshund Skin Bumps?

You’re probably wondering why your adorable dachshund has those worrying and awful-looking red bumps on their chest. Well, there are several possible reasons, and we’re here to shed light on them. Unfortunately, those Dachshund skin bumps can be quite itchy, so it’s important to react quickly.  Just imagine how would you feel to deal with something similar on your skin. 

1. Allergies in Dachshunds: A Common Culprit

Just like humans, dachshunds can suffer from allergies. These allergies might be triggered by certain foods, pollen, or even environmental factors. When your pup’s immune system reacts to these allergens, it can result in red, itchy bumps on their chest. One of the most common food allergy triggers are by-products, artificial colors, flavors, chicken skin, soy, corn, and other grains.

Environmental Allergies

• Triggered by exposure to allergens like dust mites, pollen, mold, or grass.
• Symptoms often worsen during certain seasons, especially spring and fall when pollen levels are high.
• Affected areas include the belly, paws, and ears, where small red bumps, swelling, or inflamed skin can develop.
• Dogs may excessively scratch, lick, or chew at the irritated areas, further exacerbating the condition.

Food Allergies

• Common culprits include proteins like chicken, beef, or dairy products, though grains can also be problematic.
• Skin reactions such as dachshund skin bumps or rashes are common, along with digestive issues like vomiting or diarrhea.
• Symptoms often appear on the face, paws, and belly, causing discomfort and irritation.

Contact Allergies

• Caused by direct exposure to irritants like cleaning products, shampoos, or certain fabrics.
• Symptoms include localized redness, bumps, and itching at the contact site.

2. Mites and Mange

Mites are a common cause of dachshund skin problems, often leading to conditions like demodectic mange or sarcoptic mange, which can severely affect their skin and coat health. These tiny parasites burrow into the skin, causing inflammation and discomfort. One of the most noticeable signs of mite infestations is the appearance of dachshund skin bumps, along with other symptoms like hair loss, itching, and scaly skin.

Demodectic Mange

• Caused by Demodex mites, which are naturally present on dogs’ skin but can overgrow when the immune system is compromised.
• Common in puppies and young Dachshunds with underdeveloped immune defenses.
• Symptoms include localized patches of hair loss, red or irritated skin, and small bumps.
• In more severe cases, generalized mange can lead to widespread hair loss, crusty skin, and secondary infections.

Sarcoptic Mange (Scabies)

• A highly contagious condition caused by Sarcoptes scabies mites.
• Symptoms include intense itching, crusty sores, redness, and raised skin bumps.
• Affected areas often include the ears, belly, and elbows, but the infestation can spread if untreated.
• This type of mange can also be transmitted to other dogs or even humans, requiring immediate veterinary attention.

How Mites Affect Dachshund Skin

Mites irritate the skin, triggering an inflammatory response. This leads to excessive scratching and biting, which can cause secondary injuries and infections. Over time, dachshund skin bumps may become more pronounced as the infestation worsens. These bumps can also rupture or become crusty, exacerbating the discomfort.

Treatment and Prevention

• Veterinary Care: Diagnosis often involves a skin scrape to identify the type of mite. Treatment may include medicated shampoos, dips, or oral medications designed to kill mites.
• Flea and Tick Preventatives: Many monthly parasite control products also protect against mites, reducing the risk of infestations.
• Environmental Hygiene: Regularly clean bedding, toys, and living areas to minimize exposure to mites.
• Immune Support: Provide a balanced diet and supplements, like omega-3 fatty acids, to strengthen your Dachshund’s immune system and promote healthier skin.

3. Heat Rash: Blame It on the Weather

Dachshunds have sensitive skin, and hot weather can be tough on them. If your furry friend has been walking in the sun, those red bumps could be a result of a heat rash. The heat causes their sweat glands to become blocked, leading to these uncomfortable eruptions.

As we all know, dogs can regulate their body temperature only through their paw pads. Unlike humans who sweat all over their bodies, Doxies can sweat only through their paw pads.

That’s why it’s very important to avoid walks in the hottest part of the day. Otherwise, Dachshund skin bumps can occur. That’s a normal body reaction to excessive heat and walking on hot ground.

Note that these cute fellows have short legs, so their bellies are closer to the ground. Therefore, exactly this feature can make them prone to skin bumps. 

4. Infections: The Sneaky Intruders 

Infections, whether bacterial or fungal, can invade your cracked dachshund’s skin. If left untreated, dachshund red bumps on the chest can become infected and cause a severe discomfort for your pup. A Dachshund who deals with itchy red bumps on the chest will rub their belly onto the ground to feel relief.

However, such behavior can lead to micro cracks on your Dachshund’s skin bumps, so they represent a perfect place for bacteria growth.

5. Bug Bites: The Leading Reason For Dachshund Skin Bumps

Imagine tiny, pesky insects feasting on your dachshund’s skin. Well, that’s what happens when your pup becomes a magnet for bug bites. These bites can cause redness, swelling, and those bumps on your Doxie’s chest.

Whether we talk about mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or some other insects, all of them can cause Dachsund skin bumps. However, fleas and ticks are often the most common culprits. As your dog loves to roll in the grass (as any other dog out there), he can pick up the nasty ticks or even fleas. 

So, as soon as you notice some bumps on your Dachshund’s chest, make sure you check for these insects.

6. Flea Allergy Dermatitis

Flea allergy dermatitis is a specific allergic reaction to flea saliva, and it’s one of the most common skin issues in Dachshunds. Even a single flea bite can trigger intense itching and noticeable dachshund skin bumps, particularly around the tail base, lower back, and hind legs. This condition is not just uncomfortable for your dog but can also lead to secondary infections if the skin becomes damaged from excessive scratching.

Symptoms of Flea Allergy Dermatitis

• Dachshund skin bumps near the base of the tail or along the spine.
• Intense itching, biting, or licking at the affected areas.
• Hair loss or thinning fur due to persistent scratching.
• Red, inflamed skin, often accompanied by scabs or crusting.

Why Flea Bites Are a Problem for Allergic Dachshunds

Flea saliva contains proteins that some dogs’ immune systems perceive as harmful, triggering an allergic response. In Dachshunds, this can lead to an overreaction where even minimal flea exposure causes significant discomfort.

7. Folliculitis

Folliculitis is a bacterial infection of the hair follicles that can cause small, raised bumps or pustules on your Dachshund’s skin. These bumps are often red, inflamed, and sometimes filled with pus, making them uncomfortable for your pup. Folliculitis often occurs as a secondary issue when your dog scratches or licks excessively, creating tiny wounds that allow bacteria to enter and thrive.

What Causes It?

• Allergies, mites, or irritants that lead to scratching or biting at the skin.
• Poor hygiene or underlying conditions like seborrhea or hormonal imbalances.

How to Spot It?

• Look for clusters of small red or yellow bumps.
• Areas may appear scaly or crusty, with patches of hair loss around the bumps.
• Your Dachshund might seem extra itchy or sensitive to touch.

How to Handle It?

• See your vet for a diagnosis and possible treatment with antibiotics or medicated shampoos.
• Keep your dog’s skin clean and dry to prevent further irritation.

8. Lipomas

Lipomas are benign (non-cancerous) fatty tumors that commonly appear as soft, movable lumps under your Dachshund’s skin. They’re especially common in older dogs, and while they might feel a bit strange when you pet your pup, they’re typically harmless and don’t cause any pain.

What to Watch For

• Soft, round, or oval-shaped lumps that you can gently move under the skin.
• Usually found on the belly, chest, or legs.
• They grow slowly and generally don’t bother your dog.

Do You Need to Worry?

• Not usually! But it’s always a good idea to have your vet check any new lumps to rule out more serious conditions.
• If a lipoma grows large or interferes with your dog’s movement, your vet may recommend removing it.

9. Sebaceous Cysts

Sebaceous cysts happen when your Dachshund’s oil glands (sebaceous glands) get blocked, forming firm, small bumps under the skin. While they can look alarming, they’re generally harmless unless they become infected.

How to Identify a Sebaceous Cyst

• A small, round, firm bump that might feel a bit like a pea under the skin.
• Over time, the cyst may rupture, releasing a thick, white, or yellow substance.
• Commonly found on the neck, back, or head.

What Should You Do?

• If the cyst ruptures, keep the area clean to avoid infection.
• For persistent or infected cysts, your vet may recommend draining or removing them surgically.

10. Hot Spots

Hot spots are moist, inflamed patches of skin that your Dachshund might obsessively lick, chew, or scratch. These irritated areas can develop quickly, often in response to allergies, bites, or irritants. Hot spots are not just uncomfortable—they can escalate into painful sores if untreated.

Signs of a Hot Spot

• Red, raw, or oozing patches of skin, often accompanied by hair loss.
• Your dog can’t stop licking or scratching the area, making it worse.
• The affected skin may feel warm to the touch or have a bad odor.

Why Do They Happen?

• Allergies, fleas, or other skin irritants are common triggers.
• Excessive licking caused by stress, boredom, or minor wounds.

How to Treat Hot Spots

• Trim the hair around the area to keep it clean and dry.
• Use an antiseptic or vet-prescribed cream to soothe inflammation.
• Prevent your Dachshund from licking it by using an Elizabethan collar if needed.

11. Fungal Infections

Dachshunds, with their adorable skin folds and long ears, can be prone to fungal infections, especially in warm and moist areas like their paws or between skin folds. The most common type is a yeast infection, which can make your dog’s skin greasy, itchy, and downright stinky.

How to Spot a Fungal Infection

• Red or irritated skin, often in folds or between toes.
• Greasy patches with a waxy or flaky texture.
• A distinct musty odor that might make you wrinkle your nose.

What Causes It?

• Warm, humid conditions that allow yeast to thrive.
• Allergies or other skin conditions that disrupt the skin’s natural balance.

How to Manage It

• • Use antifungal shampoos or wipes as recommended by your vet.
  • Keep affected areas clean and dry to prevent the fungus from spreading.
  • In severe cases, your vet may prescribe oral antifungal medications.

12. Parasites and Dachshund Skin Bumps

When it comes to Dachshunds and skin problems, parasites are usually the culprits. These little troublemakers, like fleas, ticks and mites, can wreak havoc on your pup’s skin, causing itchy, inflamed bumps that can’t be ignored.

What’s causing it?

Parasites are expert hitchhikers. They grab onto your Dachshund through contact with other animals, tall grass or even infested bedding. Once on your dog, they start feeding on their blood or burrowing into their skin, causing irritation, allergic reactions and infections. If left untreated, these little pests can turn a minor annoyance into a full blown skin crisis.

How to spot it?

The first sign of a parasite problem? Your Dachshund can’t stop scratching! If your pup is scratching, licking or biting at their skin, it’s time to investigate. Look for red patches, scabs or tiny bumps. In severe cases you might see hair loss or crusty skin. Also keep an eye out for visible pests like fleas crawling through their coat or ticks attached to their skin. If in doubt, always get your vet involved.

What are the most common parasites a dog can get?

Your Dachshund isn’t fussy – they can attract all sorts! Here are the top culprits:

• Fleas: These little jumpers cause non stop itching and can even trigger flea allergy dermatitis.

• Ticks: They transmit diseases and attach to your dog’s skin and suck their blood. Ewww!

• Mites: Mange mites (like Demodex or Sarcoptes) love burrowing into the skin, causing intense irritation and hair loss.

• Lice: Less common but still a pain, lice cause itching and discomfort.

• Worms: Not directly causing skin bumps but can cause secondary skin issues due to overall health.

13. Skin Conditions: Chronic Troublemakers

Some dachshunds are prone to chronic skin conditions like dermatitis. These persistent issues can manifest as red bumps on the chest and require consistent care and attention. 

Once your dog develops dermatitis, he/she can continue suffering from it throughout his/her lifetime. According to statistics, dermatitis in Doxies can be kept under control by changing their diet and life habits.

Doxies usually start suffering from dermatitis due to weakened immunity. Therefore, switching them to a raw diet or carefully choosing the dry kibble food brand can help a lot. In case your Doxie suffers from contact dermatitis, then make sure you don’t clean your floors with chemicals and use only sensitive laundry detergent.

14. Grooming Mishaps: Oops, You Did It!

Have you recently groomed your dachshund? Sometimes, grooming mishaps, like using harsh shampoos or over-clipping, can irritate your pup’s skin, leading to red bumps.

In case you’re not sure what would be a good shampoo for your Doxie, we recommend you take a look at the Natural Dachshund Shower Gel. It features only natural ingredients, leaving your Doxie’s coat smell fresh. Since dogs have different pH skin values from humans, using baby shampoos or shampoos for humans is strictly forbidden.

That’s how your Doxie’s skin can become itchy, and more susceptible to allergies.

Another shampoo for Dachshunds that’s worth mentioning is 2-in-1 Shampoo and Conditioner for Dachshunds. If you’re the owner of a long-haired or wire-haired Dachshund, then this shampoo will be a life-savior thing. It features a conditioner in the same bottle, so you won’t deal with knots after baths.

In case you want to keep your Doxie clean and fresh between baths, then you gotta take a look at our Dachshund Dry Shampoo. Thanks to its antibacterial effect and fresh scent, your furry friend will stay clean between baths.

Remedies and Solutions For Treating Dachshund Skin Bumps

Now that we’ve uncovered the reasons behind those dachshund skin bumps, let’s explore some remedies and solutions to help your furry friend find relief.

1. Consult Your Vet

If you’re unsure about the cause of the red Dachshund skin bumps, or if they persist or worsen, it’s essential to consult your veterinarian. They can diagnose the issue and provide appropriate treatment options.

2. Avoid Popping the Bumps

Resist the temptation to pop or squeeze those bumps. Doing so may lead to infection or worsen the condition. Let a professional, like your vet, handle any necessary procedures. If the bumps need to be squeezed, then it has to be treated with antibiotics to prevent infections. Your vet will probably prescribe you an antibiotic powder to dry out the bumps.

3. Keep Your Dachshund Cool

If heat rash is the culprit, ensure your dachshund stays cool and well-hydrated. Provide shade and limit outdoor playtime during scorching weather. You can also wrap your Doxie in a wet cotton band to give him/her a cooling relief. During summer months, your Doxie may need a dog cooling bed and a cooling vest. A cooling vest can keep your dog safe from a heatstroke and since their bellies are close to the ground, they should become must-have items in your dog’s closet.

4. Address Allergies

If allergies are to blame, work with your vet to identify the allergen and adjust your dachshund’s diet or environment accordingly. Medications or allergy shots may be recommended. Besides, some dogs will need to take Benadryl as regular therapy to decrease itchiness and further allergic reaction. 

5. Maintain a Clean Environment

Regularly clean and groom your dachshund to prevent skin issues caused by dirt and debris. Use gentle, dog-specific shampoos and avoid over-bathing. When bathing your Dachshund, make sure you use dog-safe shampoos.

6. Treat Infections

If an infection is diagnosed, follow your vet’s prescribed treatment plan diligently. Antibiotics or antifungal medications may be necessary.

7. Prevent Bug Bites

Use dog-friendly insect repellents such as spray oils or protective collars. Ensure your dachshund’s living area is free from potential bug hideouts. You can also make a mix of lavender essential oil, tea trea oil and lemon tree oil and spray your Doxie’s coat before spending time outside.

8. Provide Skin Supplements

Add skin supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, to your dachshund’s diet to promote healthy skin. Amino acids are also important for your Dachshund’s skin, and the best way to include them is by adding blueberries to their diet. You can use blueberries for rewarding or add a few of them to your dog’s regular diet. Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids found in fish like salmon and tuna can not only make your dog’s skin elastic but also less susceptible to irritations.

Collagen is another important supplement that can improve your Dachshund’s coat and skin. It will reduce dryness, and improve skin elasticity. MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) is a supplement that often comes in combination with glucosamine. Besides it reduces inflammation, it also enhances skin healing. 

9. Invest in Proper Grooming Tools

To prevent grooming mishaps, invest in high-quality grooming tools. Depending on the type of Doxie you own, you should choose different grooming tools for your pup. Choose between grooming gloves, brushes with needle pins, or silicone pins.

What If My Dachshund Keeps Scratching?

If your dachshund is constantly scratching, it indicates an underlying condition. Consult your vet to identify the underlying cause and provide relief through appropriate treatment. If your Doxie develops wounds and his skin becomes hairless on the spot he scratches, then your vet will include an antibiotic treatment. 

Are Skin Bumps On My Dachshund Contagious to Other Dogs?

In most cases, these red bumps are not contagious to other dogs. However, if the cause is an infectious agent, it’s essential to keep your dachshund separated from other pets until the issue is resolved.

READ ALSO: Dachshund Ear Infection: How To Treat It?

Those red bumps on your dachshund’s chest may seem alarming, but with the right knowledge and care, you can help your furry companion find relief. Remember to consult your vet for a proper diagnosis and follow the recommended remedies and solutions to ensure your dachshund stays happy, healthy, and bump-free!