Check your dog’s paws and lower legs, then scan the rest of the body for unexplained redness, swelling, hair loss or a skin ulcer. You cannot diagnose Alabama Rot (CRGV) by sight, and most sores have another cause, but an unexpected ulcer warrants veterinary advice. If your dog is also unwell, seek urgent veterinary help.
How to check your dog for possible lesions
After a walk—particularly a muddy one—look over your dog in good light. Work gently, parting the coat where needed. Check the paws and lower legs first, but do not stop there: reported lesions can occur on the head, muzzle, tongue, flank and belly as well.
- Inspect each paw. Look between the toes and around the digits, pads and feet. Notice any area your dog repeatedly licks or guards.
- Check the lower legs. Part the fur and look for a patch of redness, swelling, hair loss or damaged skin.
- Scan the rest of the dog. Check the face and muzzle, then the body, including the flanks and belly. If your dog will comfortably allow it, look at the mouth and tongue.
- Contact your veterinary practice about an unexpected ulcer or sore. Do not wait to see whether other symptoms appear.
The Royal Veterinary College (RVC) recommends seeking veterinary advice if a dog develops an unexpected skin ulcer: RVC Alabama Rot FAQ.
What a possible lesion may look like
A lesion may be an unexplained red or swollen area, a patch where hair is missing, or a break in the skin such as an ulcer. It may be small or subtle and can resemble a cut, bruise, sting or bite. More paw licking than usual is a reason to take a closer look.
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These appearances are not specific to Alabama Rot. Most skin sores are not caused by CRGV, and owners cannot reliably identify the cause from appearance alone. A visual check helps you notice a change; it cannot diagnose the disease.
When to seek urgent veterinary advice
Kidney injury can develop one to nine days after skin lesions are first noticed, according to the RVC. Seek urgent veterinary advice if your dog seems unwell, especially if you notice vomiting, reduced appetite, lethargy, increased thirst or reduced urination. If a sore is present, do not wait for these signs before contacting a vet.
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- HEALING AID & SKIN REPAIR: Use a few times daily to flush dog cuts, abrasions, sores, and skin irritations
- PET FIRST AID ESSENTIAL: Works great on all animals at all life stages to help provide relief to skin problems
- SAFE & EFFECTIVE: Made with a non-toxic hypochlorous technology that is pH-balanced and safe if licked
- VETERINARIAN RECOMMENDED: Support wound healing with this anxiety-free, cost-effective alternative to antibiotic or steroid ointments.
- TRUSTED BRAND: Vetericyn is a leader in at-home animal health products manufactured to help pet owners take the best care of their animals
A veterinary assessment may include an examination and blood and urine tests to assess kidney function; a biopsy may also be considered. The Alabama Rot FAQ notes that there is no blood or urine test designed specifically to confirm CRGV, so a home check or test cannot settle the diagnosis.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What walks, seasons and washing can—and cannot—tell you
UK reports are more common in winter and spring and among dogs walked in muddy woodland areas. These are reported associations, not proof that a particular walk caused illness or a reliable way to predict which dog will be affected. CRGV is rare, and its cause remains unknown.
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Washing your dog after a muddy walk has not been shown to prevent Alabama Rot. It can, however, make it easier to spot a lesion in common areas while checking the skin. Treat washing as an optional inspection aid, not protection against the disease.
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