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My puppy has swollen ears & neck lumps. Is it puppy strangles?

Updated on September 23, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Dachshund | Male | 1 month and 29 days old | 4 lbs

Brownie (2 months old) has been a bit inactive for the past 2 3 days and has been scratching his ears a lot. I noticed swollen ears and lump on both sides of his neck. I researched a bit on the net and found out about puppy strangles or juvenile cellulitis. It was also mentioned that this disease is difficult to diagnose and is often confused with other disease. I'll take him for performing a pathological test today..can you please suggest that what will be observed to tonfirm puppy strangles?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA

Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on October 24, 2017

There isn’t a test for it. We diagnose based on clinical signs, such as swollen lymphnodes, very inflamed ears, and usually facial skin inflammation as well. However, sometimes we will perform blood work to make sure nothing else appears to be going on. Dogs usually start to feel better once the steroids are started. Good luck and I hope Brownie improves soon!
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