What human cream can I put on my dog s rash

By Isabella Storyclaire

last updated November 18, 2024

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What Cream Can I Put on My Dogs Sore Bum?

If your dog has started pulling his butt along the floor or frantically trying to itch his bottom, you should really take pity on him and give him some help. One of the best ways you can soothe a dogs sore bottom is with cream or ointment.

But which cream you put on a dogs sore bum is important, as some will have ingredients in which are not good for dogs. So, which ointment do you use on a dogs butt exactly?

There are a few different creams you can put on a dogs sore bum. These include itchy bottom ointments such as zinc cream, castor oil cream, Neosporin, hydrocortisone cream, or Sudocrem to help soothe your dogs sore bottom.

Important: Before you use any cream on your dogs sore bum please consult with your vet. All dogs are different and can react in different ways to butt creams.

Deciding which ointment to use on your dogs butt is the next step. To help you, below I explain more on the effectiveness of these sore bum creams. There are also the causes of sore butts in dogs and the warning signs to look out for. These two factors determine whether you should rely on cream alone to soothe your dogs itches.

What to put on a dogs sore bum: cream choices

Knowing your dog has a sore bottom is probably one of the undesirable sides of dog parenting. You will notice them scooting along the floor and trying to get at it. It gets so itchy for them you cant simply watch them struggle with the discomfort you have to try and help them out.

And, of course, that help will involve butt inspections here and there, and touching the area when applying topical medications.

Nothing cute about that. But we must do whats needed to make our dogs sore bottoms feel better. Before you rush out and buy cream though, please scroll below my recommendations are there are times when vet treatment should be sought, as a cream might not help.

With that being said, here are five popularly-recommended creams for soothing a dogs itchy bottom:

1. Castor oil cream

Castor oil cream has ribonucleic acid, which gives this cream pain relief and anti-inflammatory properties. Castor oil cream is said to significantly reduce the pain on your dogs sore bum and heal any chapped skin around that delicate area.

This cream is also an excellent repellent for fleas. If your dog has these annoying parasites on his bum, rubbing castor cream around the area will keep the fleas away.

Its a good idea to seek your vets advice on the best castor oil cream to buy.

2. Sudocrem

Sudocrem can be used very sparingly on dogs butts to soothe an itch. Its a top-rated anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial cream that treats skin problems like eczema, diaper rash, acne, sunburns, insect bites, and cuts.

While this topical medication is designed for humans, its formulation is considered dog-safe but only in small amounts, hence why many vets often recommend it for managing itchy bums in dogs.

You can use Sudocrem to sooth your dogs sore bottom (https://unsplash.com/photos/18AI05KHjEc)

However, there is Zinc oxide in Sudocrem, which can be toxic to dogs. So, consult your vet first as I explain further down the page as its for topical use only.

You should consider a cone, as this will stop your dog itching the wound or bottom with Sudocrem on.

3. Neosporin ointment

As with all the bottom soothing creams on this page, Neosporin can make dogs sick if they lick and ingest it, so make sure its for topical use only. Neosporin creates a physical barrier between the irritants and the dogs bum. It also kills bacteria around the bum that might be triggering the inflammation.

But experts recommend doing a patch test before applying it to your dogs sensitive bottom.

They suggest rubbing a tiny amount of Neosporin on another part of your dogs skin and observing if theres any allergic reaction.

If your dog doesnt develop side effects like bumps or redness, you can use a little Neosporin on their sore bottom. With your vets approval, of course.

4. Hydrocortisone cream

Again, this is not a vet-approved ointment to soothe itchy dog butts, but they will often recommend it in small amounts. Hydrocortisone cream offers quick relief from irritation and reduces swelling when applied to the affected area.

So, if your dogs bottom is sore, you can massage a small amount of hydrocortisone cream to make them feel better.

You should discontinue use and see the vet if the soreness persists a few days later. Like other creams, hydrocortisone isnt suitable for prolonged use in dogs.

5. Zinc oxide cream (be careful again)

Zinc oxide is often considered a good choice. Its added to most topical medications because of its amazing anti-inflammatory properties. But only use it sparingly, and if youre completely confident that your dog cannot get to it and lick it.

A zinc oxide cream will greatly reduce the swelling, redness, or pain in your dogs bum.

This cream forms a protective coating or barrier on your dogs sensitive anal skin, keeping the butt free from bacteria, irritants, and moisture that may trigger further itchiness.

Your vet can suggest an effective cream with an appropriate zinc oxide concentration, so its good to consult them before purchasing an over-the-counter zinc oxide cream.

Remember to clean your dogs sore bottom with a soft washcloth and warm water, then dry the area before applying the cream.

And to avoid instances where your dog licks off the cream as soon as you apply it, you can consider using it just before their feeding time. This will give your dogs bum enough time to absorb the cream as your dog eats.

Another trick is taking them for a short walk or letting them wear an Elizabethan collar or cone briefly after application.

Dont use any cream without taking to a vet about your dogs sore bottom

While some sore bum cases require urgent vet care, others are mild and can ofteb be resolved at home with topical creams. You should carefully observe your dogs symptoms since these determine how severe or mild the bum soreness is.

If they arent over-scooting, dont have wounds, or there isnt an unusual hardness on the bum, you can apply a vet-recommended cream and monitor for any improvement. Also, stick to your vets instructions on the amount and frequency of use.

Before you do it though, ask your vet for a cream recommendation.

If the symptoms are far from minor, you cant rely on topical cream alone. Youll need to take your dog to the vet for further diagnosis and treatment.

There are many culprits responsible for your dogs sore bottom, among them:

Swollen anal glands: A dogs anal glands carry a certain smelly fluid that dogs expel when they poop. This substance lubricates the dogs feces. If theres an infection in your furry friends anal glands, it will prevent this fluid from being expelled during defecation. The fluid build-up will cause inflammation around the anus.
Parasites: External parasites like fleas like to hover around a dogs butt. And internal worms like tapeworms hatch eggs that at times attach themselves to the anal hairs.
Constipation or diarrhea: that makes a dogs skin around the anus prone to cracks.
Allergic reactions: either from new food or a bathing product.
Anal skin cuts: from grooming accidents or bruises when rough playing.
Yeast or bacterial infections: that affect the anal area.
Sitting on a rough surface: like a hot concrete floor or sand.
Dried poop: lingering on the butt surface.

The level of pain from a sore bum varies from dog to dog. It all depends on the root cause of your dogs soreness.

While your dog cant verbally express how much discomfort they feel down there, their symptoms can tell you all you need to know about the severity of their sore bum:

Scooting: If your dog has a sore bum, you will see him drag it on the floor in an attempt to soothe it. You should seek professional help if your dog scoots excessively.
Avoiding the sitting posture: and whining if something touches their butt
The anal area feels hard: when you gently press it with your finger
The butt appears swollen: but without any deep rashes or wounds
The swelling is accompanied by redness: pus, or bleeding wounds
Over-grooming: their backside
A foul smell: on their butt (can be a sour smell, sometimes described as being fishy)
Blood: in their poop

FAQs on your dogs sore bum

Can I put coconut oil on my dogs sore bum?

Yes, thats right. Coconut oils anti-inflammatory properties can ease irritation on a dogs bum. But you must consult your vet before using it.

Can I put Vaseline on my dogs butt?

The question of whether its okay to Vaseline on a dogs sore bum is often a murky one. Some say its amazing in soothing the butt discomfort, while others think petroleum jelly easily traps bacteria, worsening the soreness.

Its best to seek your vets opinion before using vaseline.

Can I use hemorrhoid cream on my dog?

You can only use an anti-hemorrhoid cream if your vet recommends so. Treating a dogshemorrhoid issue without professional help is not advisable since there may be a serious underlying cause for these hemorrhoids.

Conclusion

Bum soreness is quite a common issue in dogs. If your beloved four-legged friend has a sore bottom, theres a good chance youre wondering what creams you can use to manage the problem.

Whilst I have recommended some creams you can put on a dogs sore bum, always check with a vet first and then use very sparingly.

Hydrocortisone Cream for Dogs: What Is It and How to Use It Safely

Hydrocortisone is a medicinal substance found in many human-grade topical products.

Its main utilization is in treating inflammation or allergic reactions, particularly if they involve skin rash flare-ups.

Recently, hydrocortisone has been used in veterinary products, and one of the more commonly bought items is hydrocortisone cream for dogs.

Glucocorticoids were the most commonly used type of treatment for various dog skin conditions (1).

However, after recent studies discovered their lack of skin penetration and potential side effects for dogs, making the risk-to-reward ratio not worth it, veterinary dermatologists stopped using them.

They did not recommend them any longer (2, 3).

Companies developed new and better products thanks to esterification to a hydrocortisone template molecule, and studies showed them to be effective and safer for dogs (4, 5, 6, 7).

This hydrocortisone for dogs' products include creams and sprays, and companies tested them for efficacy on several canine skin problems, including dermatitis, allergies, pruritus, and more.

In particular, a large 2012 study focused on testing the safety and efficacy of hydrocortisone for dogs found it to be without adverse effects.

The majority of dogs achieved a 50% or more reduction in skin inflammation and related skin problems.

Scientists also found that hydrocortisone also improved barrier skin function in tested dogs.

What is Hydrocortisone Cream for Dogs?

Hydrocortisone will often contain high concentrations of corticosteroids (8).

Corticosteroids are a type of hormone steroid, and studies showed their topical use to be effective at treating irritating, itchy, inflamed, and dry skin in dogs.

Corticosteroids come in two forms: hormones that can be naturally found in a dog's body (mineralocorticoids).

They manufactured synthetic products common in veterinary medicines (glucocorticoids), such as discussed hydrocortisone cream for dogs.

Hydrocortisone products made for people are not recommended for dogs.

There's a difference between your hydrocortisone topical and dog-friendly hydrocortisone cream.

Human-grade hydrocortisone is not FDA-approved for animals and is not vet-recommended to treat dog skin problems.

While hydrocortisone creams in your medicine cabinet could, in fact, treat an itchy area, rash, or hot spot on your dogs skin, if the dog were to lick that cream, adverse side effects could occur like weakened bladder, diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration (9, 10).

Luckily for you and your pet, there are multiple hydrocortisone creams for dogs, as well as hydrocortisone lotions, sprays, oral medications, and even medicated shampoos containing hydrocortisone specifically designed for a canine patient.

They are often used (and, sadly, misused) in veterinary dermatology.

However, when following safety instructions, they are extremely effective for treating several skin issues in dogs.

5 Uses of Hydrocortisone Cream for Dogs

Hydrocortisone is a powerful substance observed in studies to treat skin conditions in dogs successfully, and it's been used in animals at least since the 70s (11).

Below are five of the most common conditions where hydrocortisone for dogs is used.

1. Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is a veterinarian term used to explain a chronic skin issue linked to a dog's allergic reaction.

Any of the following are likely to be recommended and prescribed by your vet to combat this skin problem: antihistamines, cyclosporine, and corticosteroids like hydrocortisone cream for dogs (12).

These can be oral or topical prescription products.

Topicals will be directly applied to the inflamed skin.

Several studies found that hydrocortisone is safe and can significantly improve atopic dermatitis conditions in dogs (13, 14).

2. Other Canine Allergies

Dogs may experience occasional allergic reactions.

Youll know your dog is suffering from allergies if they exhibit any of the following signs:

While a vet best looks at a chronic allergy in dogs, non-threatening allergies many of which are present seasonally can be treated with hydrocortisone cream for dogs and other hydrocortisone products, such as flea allergy dermatitis (15).

However, its important to note that hydrocortisone will not treat allergies at its core.

The effect of hydrocortisone use is merely easing any potential inflammation or itchiness found on your pets skin.

3. Hot Spots

A Hot Spot is a term used to describe a localized lesion that a dog has licked or scratched into a severely inflamed and infected area of skin.

Other names for hot spots include moist dermatitis or pyotraumatic dermatitis.

Hot spots can occur secondary to a dog exacerbating common dog ailments, such as pest bites (insects, mites, ticks, fleas), allergies, or non-serious injuries, such as minor cuts or scratches.

Hot spots can also be seen in dogs with a history of allergies that tend to lick and chew their paws or their body more than others.

Hot spots often develop very quickly, and without treatment, the dog will create a severely ulcerated and painful problem.

Severe hot spots will need to be treated by your veterinarian as they often require injectable steroids and sometimes oral antibiotics.

One of the most important parts of treatment for a hot spot is a barrier between your dog's mouth and the lesion, typically using an Elizabethan collar.

For mild hot spots, you may try treating them with E-collar and topical steroid sprays, but without a barrier in place, the dog will just continue to lick the medication and worsen the problem.

4. Poison Oak, Ivy, Sumac

Rashes from toxic plants like poison oak or poison ivy typically subside within less than a month.

However, the presence of itching can lengthen this ailment and cause it to become inflamed and possibly lead to more serious infections in dogs (19).

Hydrocortisone cream for dogs is an effective medicine for specifically these issues.

It doesnt intend to treat but merely ease discomfort in the pet, reducing or eliminating itching and allowing for a quicker recovery (20).

Vet Approved Hydrocortisone Cream for Dogs

While you can use hydrocortisone products designed for people technically on dogs, we currently have no studies on the proper and safe dosage for dogs.

However, Food and Drug Administration does have some recommendations for hydrocortisone spray uses.

The FDA approves Dog-friendly hydrocortisone products.

They are safe to use, especially when treating a rudimentary skin issue like a tiny rash without the need for guidance from a veterinarian.

Note: You should only do this if the inflamed skin is not paired with additional symptoms.

Below are a few well-known brands and products available over-the-counter for pet owners to consider if you want to try hydrocortisone for your dog's skin problem.

1. Zymox Topical Spray with Hydrocortisone for Dogs (1%)

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Zymox is the best-known brand among pet owners and veterinarians.

The company makes several products designed to ease skin inflammation and itchiness, including dog shampoos supplemented with hydrocortisone and various skin infection and ear infection treatments.

The company used to have the largest library of studies of testing their products, but with their site's rebranding, they have since removed it.

The Zymox hydrocortisone topical spray is also a disinfectant, so theres no need to wash and dab-dry the area before applying.

Additionally, it fights infection by protecting the immune system against bacteria and is safe if your dog licks the medicated area.

2. Remedy & Recovery Hydrocortisone Lotion for Dogs (0.5%)

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When applied directly to the skin after a soothing bath or gentle rinsing of the inflamed area, the Remedy & Recovery, low-dose hydrocortisone cream for dogs, helps reduce redness and inflammation, hydrates the skin, and eases irritation in dogs.

Due to its lower dosage of hydrocortisone itself, this may be an ideal addition to a monthly dog grooming routine.

3. Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Itch Relief Spray for Dogs

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A well-known brand makes another trendy hydrocortisone spray for dogs, Veterinary Formula Clinical Care.

This is a dye-free anti-inflammatory spray meant to be used for minor skin ailments in dogs and is most commonly used by dog owners for itch relief and hot spots.

You can also use it to heal wounds on dogs, reduce swelling and redness, and insect bites.

For hot spots, dermatitis, and similar skin problems, it's recommended to use this alongside their antiseptic shampoo and itch supplements.

4. Veterinarian-prescribed oral medications

For pet skin issues that do not resolve within one to two weeks of utilizing hydrocortisone cream for dogs products or for severe hot spots, contact your pets veterinarian for an appointment.

Be as specific as possible during the appointment when the vet and staff ask questions, as these may help them deduce the underlying issue and pick the best solution and treatment.

Your vet will likely suggest prescribed medications containing cortisol.

These medications fight infection, reduce redness and swelling in dogs, and help with pain management, guiding the dog through the healing process more quickly and efficiently than hydrocortisone cream for dogs or other over-the-counter hydrocortisone ointments or soaps.

How to Safely Apply Hydrocortisone Cream

Here are a few tips and items to consider when treating rash, infections, inflamed skin, and other related issues on your dog at home with the use of hydrocortisone cream for dogs or other hydrocortisone treatments:

1. Get a recovery cone/collar

Every dog owner should use an inflatable collar or an Elizabethan collar (often referred to as a head cone or recovery cone) in case infection strikes.

Its a handy household item for the modern pet owner, although your dog isnt likely to appreciate it.

These devices come in various sizes and materials some plastic, some foam to ensure a proper fit and comfort for the animal.

They will keep your dog from licking or chewing on parts of its body that causes it to be vulnerable to infection.

Its also relevant to use hydrocortisone cream for dogs to treat hot spots or dry skin, as it will keep them from licking at the area.

2. Check for open wounds

When the skin becomes inflamed, itching naturally follows.

Some dogs may even stress over the dry, itchy skin, pawing and biting at it incessantly, which can cause the skin to break and open wounds.

Note: Cortisone is not recommended for use on or near an open wound.

Always check the rash for any signs of open skin before application and contact your vet should any bleeding occur.

3. Ask for help

Its likely the raised, red area of skin is causing your dog discomfort, which is why it may be ideal or even necessary for you to request help from a housemate or neighbor when applying hydrocortisone cream for dogs or other similar ointments.

The two of you, when working together, can ensure the dog is calmer as you apply medicine to its skin.

Avoid holding the dog forcibly down, which could cause them more distress.

Instead, have one person pet the dog and speak to them in a soothing voice while the other works quickly yet gently to spread or dab the cream over the affected region.

4. Wash hands before application

To help fight off the risk of infection and further complications, always thoroughly wash your hands before touching or inspecting your dogs inflamed skin, and of course, wash them off completely afterward, too.

5. Use a cotton-tip applicator

You may want to use a cotton swab, apply the cream to one end, and gently spread it around the rash.

This is another method intended to safeguard from the potential of infection and is simply the easiest way to apply the ointment.

6. Keep the inflamed skin clean

Any time animal experiences dry, irritated skin, they will lick, itch, and even bite at it in an attempt to soothe or heal the area.

Unbeknownst to them, this attention worsens swelling, spreads the rash, and increases their chances of infection, which is why its important to routinely wash the area, particularly before applying hydrocortisone cream for dogs or any other topical solutions.

Hydrocortisone Cream for Dogs: FAQs

Will hydrocortisone hurt my dog?

Hydrocortisone cream will not hurt your dog if you use the version engineered for use on animals. You should not use the versions for humans on your dog.

Once the cream dries, you do not have to worry as much about your dog licking it. The worst that is likely to happen if he licks dry hydrocortisone cream is some foaming or drooling.

Can you use hydrocortisone on dogs hot spots?

Yes, hydrocortisone cream works well on dogs hot spots. Just make sure to use a product for dogs and follow the instructions on the tube.

What are human creams safe for dogs?

Only certain human creams are safe for dogs. When in doubt, its always best to ask your vet before using any human cream.

That said, Pepcid AC, Claritin, Zyrtec, Benadryl, Artificial Tears, and Neosporin are typically safe for dogs.

What can I put on my dog to stop itching?

Hydrocortisone cream can help with itching, as can a spray with equal proportions of water and apple cider vinegar.

If your dog has a lot of itching, you should consult your vet.

What happens if my dog licks hydrocortisone cream?

If your dog licked and ingested hydrocortisone cream, he may experience increased thirst and urination, vomiting, panting, and diarrhea.

Hydrocortisone Cream for Dogs: Before You Go

Hydrocortisone for dogs is safe when following a few safety guidelines.

As long as they are used sparingly on the skin, mostover-the-counter hydrocortisone creams are safe for dogs.

This kind of ointment is excellent for dogs when used to treat minor skin inflammation and edema.

Just make sure you're using it no more than twice each day.

Reach out to your vet for a prescription strength choice if your woofer is still itchy in between doses.