Warts in Dogs
Warts, also known as viral papillomas, are small, benign skin growths caused by the canine papillomavirus (CPV).
What Are Warts?
They most commonly appear around the mouth, lips, eyelids, or paws but can occur anywhere on the body. Warts are more common in young dogs, immunocompromised dogs, or those who frequently socialize with other dogs.
At My Corner Vet Nedlands, we offer expert care to diagnose and treat warts, ensuring your dogs comfort and health.
Signs Your Dog May Have Warts
Symptoms can include:
🐾 Small, cauliflower-like growths on the skin or in the mouth
🐾 Single or multiple warts appearing in clusters
🐾 Warts on the paws causing limping or licking
🐾 Oral warts may lead to difficulty eating or excessive drooling
🐾 In some cases, warts may become inflamed, infected, or bleed
If your dog shows any of these signs, a vet check-up is recommended to allow for treatment and prevent further complications.
What Causes Warts?
Canine papillomavirus is spread through direct contact with infected dogs, shared toys, water bowls, or grooming tools. It enters through small cuts or abrasions in the skin. Dogs with a healthy immune system usually fight off the virus over time, while those with weaker immune defenses may develop more warts.
When to See a Vet
Warts are usually harmless and go away on their own, but veterinary attention is needed if:
🐾The wart is growing rapidly or changing in appearance
🐾There is bleeding, infection, or ulceration
🐾Your dog has difficulty eating or walking due to wart location
🐾The warts don’t improve after a few months
At My Corner Vet Nedlands, we offer gentle, professional treatment of warts in dogs.
Professional Wart Treatment at My Corner Vet
Treatment depends on the severity of the condition and may include:
Surgical removal
If a wart is causing discomfort or getting infected, removal may be recommended.
Monitoring
Most warts disappear within 1–6 months as the immune system clears the virus.
How to Prevent Warts
You can reduce the risk by:
🐾 Limit direct contact with infected dogs – Avoid socialising your dog with others who have visible warts.
🐾 Good hygiene – Regularly clean shared items like water bowls and toys, especially in multi-dog households.
🐾 Support immune health – A healthy diet, regular exercise, and reducing stress can help keep your dog’s immune system strong.
Frequently Asked Questions
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No, canine papillomavirus is species-specific and does not infect humans or other animals like cats.
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It is not recommended. Home removal can cause pain, infection, or excessive bleeding. Always consult a veterinarian for treatment options.
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Most warts disappear within 1-6 months as the immune system clears the virus. However, some may persist longer in immunocompromised dogs.
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Yes, while warts are more common in young dogs, older dogs with weakened immune systems can also develop them.
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There is no universal vaccine for canine papillomavirus, but maintaining good overall health can help prevent infection.
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Schedule a check-up today for expert wart treatment. 🐶✨
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