If you’ve ever noticed strange red marks or bites on your dog’s stomach, your first thought might be, “Is this serious?” It’s totally normal to feel a little worried—but the good news is, it might not be anything to panic over.
The Morinville Veterinary Clinic in Alberta, Canada, recently posted some helpful info on their Facebook page that’s easing a lot of pet parents’ fears. According to their vets, those red spots are most likely just fly bites—specifically from black flies.
“These are a type of fly bite, and dogs generally get them from lying in the grass,” the clinic explained. “They look terrible, but usually don’t bother the dogs. They heal quickly on their own and don’t need any treatment.”
These flies tend to show up for just a few weeks each spring and then disappear. So if your dog’s been enjoying the outdoors, especially rolling around in the grass, these bites could be the result.
The post quickly went viral, with dog owners everywhere sharing similar stories—and a big sense of relief. One commenter wrote,
“Thank you for the info! I was about to spend $200 at the vet—money I really don’t have!”
Still, it’s always good to be cautious. While fly bites are usually harmless, similar-looking marks could be caused by other pests or even allergic reactions. That’s why Michael San Filippo, a spokesperson for the American Veterinary Medical Association, recommends keeping an eye on your dog’s skin and behavior.
“If you notice anything unusual—like changes in behavior, itching, or swelling—it’s best to check in with your vet,” he said.
Bottom line: If your dog has a few red bites on their belly, it might just be springtime flies doing their thing. They’ll likely clear up on their own. But when in doubt, a quick call to your vet never hurts.
