Steps to Take When Your Dog Is Bitten by Another Dog

Last updated on June 12, 2025 by Puppy Leaks.

Immediate Actions After a Bite

If the other dog’s owner is present, ask whether their dog is up‑to‑date on rabies vaccination and exchange contact information for possible follow‑up.

Take photos of your dog and any visible injuries. If the incident occurred on private property, check whether your homeowner’s insurance may cover part of the veterinary costs.

Assess Your Dog’s Condition

Let your dog walk, if possible, and observe its gait. If it cannot walk, appears lethargic, or seems in pain, move it to a safe location and prepare for an emergency veterinary visit.

Check for bleeding. Apply firm pressure with a clean towel, shirt, or gauze to control any bleeding.

Any puncture or tear, no matter how small, warrants a call to your veterinarian. Wounds treated within six hours have the best chance of healing without complications.

If you cannot see a wound but your dog shows signs of distress, still contact your vet. Some bite injuries are hidden beneath thick fur or may be internal.

First‑Aid Before the Vet

If you can reach a vet within an hour or two, gently rinse the area with soap and water, pat dry, and apply a small amount of chlorhexidine or povidone‑iodine (Betadine) to reduce bacterial load.

Do not attempt to flush deep punctures or remove tissue yourself—leave that to a professional.

Why a Veterinary Exam Is Essential

Dog mouths contain a wide variety of bacteria. Even a tiny puncture can create a pocket beneath the skin where bacteria multiply, leading to abscesses, cellulitis, or, in rare cases, bone and joint infections.

Internal injuries from fights may not be obvious externally. A thorough veterinary exam, possibly including X‑rays or ultrasound, is the safest way to rule out hidden trauma.

Treatment Options

All bite wounds are considered contaminated. Treatment focuses on cleaning the wound, debriding damaged tissue, and preventing infection.

Deep wounds may require anesthesia, surgical cleaning, and placement of drains to remove any pooled fluids.

Antibiotics are commonly prescribed; the earlier they are started, the better the infection control.

To prevent licking and further contamination, your vet will likely recommend an Elizabethan collar (cone).

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