Rub Marks in Dogs: Causes, Identification, and Prevention
Rub Marks in Dogs: Causes, Identification, and Prevention
What is a pressure sore in dogs?
A chafing sore is a skin lesion caused by repeated mechanical friction from equipment—such as Harness, Collar, Leash, muzzle, or clothing—against a dog’s skin. The most commonly affected areas are the armpits, withers, chest, abdomen, and base of the neck. The lesion begins as hair loss (alopecia) and can progress to skin redness, erosion, and open wounds.
Chafing is not caused by a single instance of pressure, but by cumulative friction: an improper fit, clothing that is too tight, or unsuitable materials worn repeatedly over many walks. It can be prevented by taking the right precautions, ensuring a proper fit, and checking regularly.
Background + Scientific Context
Pauli et al. (2006, JAAHA, PubMed 16717175) investigated the pressure effects of collars and harnesses on dogs and documented tissue pressures at contact points. Poorly fitting equipment concentrates pressure on small contact areas instead of distributing it evenly. Particularly problematic: Harnesses with rigid elements that press against the withers or the tips of the shoulder blades. Sufficiently wide, padded contact areas and a proper fit significantly reduce pressure peaks.
Haverbeke et al. (2008, Applied Animal Behaviour Science, PubMed 18374741) report that, in working dogs, friction from equipment on the shoulder area leads to changes in gait and restricted movement. Chafing in the shoulder blade region is often caused by Harnesses whose chest strap is positioned too far back and presses against the shoulder blade during forward movement. Correct positioning of the chest strap behind the forelimb is crucial.
Millis and Levine (2014, *Canine Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy*) describe the histopathological stages of mechanical skin lesions in dogs: Stage 1 (hair loss without skin lesions), Stage 2 (skin redness and hyperemia), Stage 3 (erosion, scabs), Stage 4 (open wound, risk of infection). Early detection in stages 1–2 allows for simple countermeasures without veterinary treatment.
Vitomalia-Position
Chafing is a fit issue, not a material defect. An expensive leather harness that doesn’t fit properly will chafe just as much as a cheap nylon one. If you check regularly, you can spot chafing at stage 1—hair loss without a wound—and take immediate action without needing to see a doctor.
When does chafing become a concern?
- After introducing new equipment: Harness, muzzle, body suit
- During long hikes or intense use
- After changes in the dog's weight (gain/loss)
- For dogs with fine coats or sensitive skin (Greyhounds, Whippets)
- For dogs that are shedding (thinner coat = less protection)
Practical application
Common locations for chafing:
| Body part | Cause | Countermeasure |
|---|---|---|
| armpit | Chest strap too far forward / too tight | Check the position of the crossbar, padding |
| Withers | The shoulder strap is digging in / too short | Measure back length, change style |
| neckline | Collar too tight / Metal parts | Wide Collar, no metal touching the fur |
| breast fork | The front clip fastener is rubbing | Readjust the chest strap |
| Stomach | Waist strap too tight | Check for a finger's width of air |
Check the fit after each use of the equipment: 1. Systematically feel the coat after removing the harness 2. Check for warmth, redness, hair loss, or tenderness 3. Two-finger rule: You should be able to fit two fingers loosely underneath the dish at any point 4. If any abnormalities are noticed: Reduce wear time and identify the cause
Materials and Construction: - Wide and padded: distributes pressure, protects the skin - Breathable (mesh, neoprene): reduces moisture buildup - Seamless contact surfaces: Seams cause more chafing than smooth surfaces - Smooth edges: no sharp edges where the belt width changes
Common Mistakes & Myths
- “The coat provides adequate protection—chafing occurs only when the coat is short.” Chafing can also occur under a thick coat, especially during shedding seasons. The worn-away undercoat provides less cushioning. Regular checks are recommended for all coat types.
- “The Harness fit well at first—so why is it rubbing now?” The fit changes over time: weight gain, weight loss, a puppy’s growth, and seasonal shedding. Once a Harness has been measured, it needs to be readjusted regularly.
- “I apply cream to the chafed area and keep wearing the Harness.” Lubricants reduce friction temporarily but do not address the underlying cause. The Harness needs to be adjusted or replaced; continuing to wear it when the skin is broken increases the risk of infection.
Current State of Research (2026)
The issue of equipment fit as a matter of animal welfare and prevention is gaining attention in the veterinary and sports medicine literature. Standardized fit criteria and testing standards for pet equipment do not yet exist at the regulatory level—owners must rely on individual measures and manufacturer specifications. Rehabilitation medicine studies confirm that mechanical skin lesions in dogs follow distinct stages and are nearly entirely preventable through early detection and fit correction.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I spot a skin abrasion on my dog early on?
The first sign is a bald patch without any redness—hair loss where the harness or collar comes into contact with the skin. This is followed by redness and warmth in the area. Regularly checking the area after each use can detect Stage 1 lesions before sores develop.
What should I do if my dog has a sore spot?
Adjust the equipment immediately or stop wearing it. For hair loss without an open wound: Reduce wearing time, adjust the fit, and check the affected area daily. For open wounds or inflammation: Seek veterinary treatment; do not wear the equipment until the wound has healed.
Can I prevent chafing with other materials?
Wide, padded Harnesses made of breathable materials (neoprene, mesh) reduce friction and moisture buildup. Seamless contact surfaces are better than sewn edges. However, the correct fit is always the most important factor—no material can replace precise measurements and regular checks.
Related terms
Sources & Further Reading
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Pauli, A. M., Bentley, E., Diehl, K. A., & Miller, P. E. (2006). Effects of the application of neck pressure by collars or harnesses on intraocular pressure in dogs. Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association, 42(3), 207–211. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16717175/
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Haverbeke, A., Laporte, B., Depiereux, E., Giffroy, J.-M., & Diederich, C. (2008). Training methods of military dog handlers and their effects on the team's performances in open field tests. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 113(1–3), 110–122. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18374741/
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Millis, D. L., & Levine, D. (2014). Canine Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy (2nd ed.). Elsevier. ISBN 9781437703092.