Updated September 25, 2026. Fact-checked against veterinary sources; review by a licensed veterinarian is in progress. See our editorial policy.
Quick answer: Canine viral papillomas are wart-like growths caused by canine papillomavirus. They’re most common in young dogs, often appearing as cauliflower-like bumps on the lips, gums, or inside the mouth. Most go away on their own within a few months as the dog’s immune system fights the virus. They’re contagious to other dogs but not to people or cats. Removal is only needed if warts bleed, get infected, interfere with eating, or don’t go away.
Signs
- Small, pale or pink, cauliflower-like growths
- Usually on the lips, gums, tongue, or inside the cheeks in young dogs
- Sometimes on the eyelids, feet, or body, especially in older dogs
- Most cause no discomfort
- Many warts can cause drooling, bad breath, bleeding, or trouble eating
How dogs catch it
The virus spreads through direct contact with an infected dog or shared toys and bowls. Dogs with immature or weakened immune systems, such as puppies or dogs on immune-suppressing medication, are more likely to develop warts.
When to see a vet
See your vet to confirm the diagnosis, since other growths can look similar, including some cancers in older dogs. Go sooner if warts bleed, become infected, grow quickly, interfere with eating, or last more than a few months.
Treatment
- Watchful waiting: most oral papillomas regress on their own, often within 1–5 months.
- Surgical removal, laser, or cryotherapy for warts that are problematic or persistent.
- Biopsy of unusual or persistent growths.
- Reviewing medications that suppress the immune system.
- Other treatments, such as certain medications or immune therapies, are sometimes tried for severe or persistent cases, but evidence is limited.
Rarely, papillomas in older dogs or dogs with weak immune systems can turn into squamous cell carcinoma, which is why persistent growths should be checked.
Home care
- Feed soft food if warts make chewing uncomfortable.
- Keep your dog away from other dogs (parks, daycare, shared toys) until the warts resolve.
- Wash toys and bowls regularly.
- Check the warts weekly and note any changes.
What to avoid
- Human wart removers (salicylic acid or freezing kits): they can burn the mouth, and the ingredients are harmful if licked.
- Cutting, tying off, or burning warts at home.
- Apple cider vinegar, garlic, or essential oils: no evidence they work, and some can irritate tissues or be toxic.
- Crushing warts in the hope of triggering immunity: this is anecdotal, not proven, and can cause bleeding and infection.
Frequently asked questions
Can humans catch dog warts?
No. Canine papillomavirus only infects dogs.
Can my dog get papillomas again?
Dogs usually develop immunity after an infection, so repeat outbreaks of oral warts are uncommon.
Should I keep my dog away from other dogs?
Yes, until the warts are gone, to avoid spreading the virus.
Sources
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Papillomas in dogs
- Lange CE, Favrot C. Canine papillomaviruses. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract. 2011
- VCA Animal Hospitals: Papillomas in dogs
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Squamous cell carcinoma in dogs
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for care from your own veterinarian. Learn about The Pet Vet and our editorial policy.