Are dog skin infections painful

Pyoderma in Dogs

What Is Pyoderma in Dogs?

Pyoderma is the medical term for a bacterial skin infection and it is one of the most common diseases in dogs. Dogs are at increased risk for pyoderma due to many features of their skin. For example, a dogs skin has a thinner outer barrier and possesses a higher pH than many other species, making it easier for normal bacteria living on the skin to overgrow and for other bacteria to invade.

Damage to the normal skin barrier also predisposes dogs to pyoderma. This is often seen with pets who scratch and lick their skin. Any area of the skin can be infected depending on the type of pyoderma affecting your dog.

Types of Pyoderma in Dogs

Surface pyodermaaffects the outer skin layer (epidermis). You may see pink, irritated skin, and hair loss. Surface pyoderma includes:

• Pyotraumatic dermatitis (hot spots): This develops rapidly and is very itchy.

• Intertrigo: Infection of skin folds, a common condition in short-muzzled breeds, such as English Bulldogs.

• Bacterial overgrowth syndrome (BOGS): The dogs skin is greasy, itchy, and smells. It is most seen on the underside of the body.

Superficial pyoderma affects the epidermis and part of the hair follicles. You may see redness, circular crusts, bumps, and hair loss. Superficial pyoderma includes:

• Impetigo (puppy pyoderma): This is an infection that is usually due to a puppys developing immune system and affects areas with little hair, like the belly.

• Affected puppies are usually healthy overall and in mild cases may only need a topical treatment. Adult dogs that are immunocompromised can also develop impetigo.

• Superficial bacterial folliculitis (SBF) and superficial spreading pyoderma: A dogs coat may have a moth-eaten appearance due to widespread hair loss. This happens in all breeds, but Shetland Sheepdogs, Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, and Collies may experience especially severe redness and irritation.

• Mucocutaneous pyoderma: This type of pyoderma leads to the overproduction of mucus in the skin. The lips, nose, skin around the eyes, vulva, prepuce, and the area around the anus are most commonly affected. German Shepherds, Bichon Friss, and poodles may be predisposed.

Deep pyoderma affects lower skin layers (dermis, subcutis): This can occur if superficial pyoderma goes untreated or skin follicles rupture. You may see swelling, purple-looking areas, or draining tracts of infection in addition to redness, crusting, and hair loss. Deep pyoderma includes:

• Furunculosis: This condition is commonly seen between a dogs toes, but it can occur elsewhere. In rare cases, a condition called post-grooming furunculosis can occur 24 to 48 hours after bathing or intense brushing, causing pain and fever.

• Acne: This is more common among young dogs, and involves inflammation of hair follicles (usually around the chin and mouth) that may become infected with bacteria.

• German Shepherd deep pyoderma: The outer thighs, groin, and trunk are likely to be affected.

• Lick granuloma: Your dog may develop a skin lesion from licking the top surface of its lower legs. This may stem from a bacterial infection or another issue.

• Callus pyoderma: This condition presents itself as dark, thickened skin over pressure points that are infected.

Symptoms of Pyoderma in Dogs

Dogs with pyoderma may have red and itchy skin. You may also see circular crusts, flakiness, areas of hair loss, and pimple-like lesions. If your dog has been scratching or biting its skin, your pet may have visible sores and pus.

If your dog has suffered from itchy skin for several weeks or more, you may see the skin get darker and thicker. Dogs with deep pyoderma may have swelling and draining tracts of infection, and experience low energy, loss of appetite, trembling, or other signs of pain.

Causes of Pyoderma in Dogs

Pyoderma usually occurs secondary to another illness or disease process. It may occur as a complication of:

• Allergies to fleas, environmental allergens, or a food ingredient

• A parasitic skin infection, like Sarcoptes or Demodex mites

• An endocrine disease, such as hypothyroidism or Cushings disease

• Immune disorders or immunosuppression

A bacterial infection may need to be cleared before additional testing for the underlying cause can be completed. The most common bacterial infection that causes pyoderma is Staphylococcus pseudintermedius, which is responsible for more than 90 percent of cases. This type of bacteria normally inhabits the skin, but it can increase in number and cause problems when the skin barrier is damaged or unhealthy.

Other causes include Staphylococcus schleiferi, Staphylococcus aureus (which in rare cases can spread to humans), as well as invaders like E. coli, Pseudomonas, Actinomyces, Nocardia, and others.

How Veterinarians Diagnose Pyoderma in Dogs

In order to diagnose your dog with pyoderma, your veterinarian will need to start with a physical exam. Based on the presence of certain lesionssuch as pustules (bumps that look like pimples) the veterinarian may be comfortable diagnosing your pet based on what he or she determines from the physical exam. Diagnostic testing is usually necessary, and may include:

Treatment of Pyoderma in Dogs

Use of an Elizabethan collar (or e-cone) is recommended if your pet is licking or biting its skin. This will prevent reinfection and allow the skin to heal.

Medications your veterinarian may recommend include:

• Antibiotics: Commonly used oral antibiotics include cephalexin, Simplicef, Clavamox, and clindamycin.
  • Cefovecin (brand name, Convenia)is an injectable antibiotic that is administered by a veterinarian and lasts for two weeks. Other antibiotics may be required if your pet has a resistant infection, or a deep infection with rod-shaped bacteria.
• Anti-itch medication: Options include Apoquel, Cytopoint, and an anti-inflammatory dose of steroids. Your veterinarian will determine whether these medications are safe options for your pet.

If you do not notice an improvement (lesions drying up, reduced itchiness, etc.) after a few days of treatment, please call your veterinarian. Culture and sensitivity may be needed to determine which antibiotic will be effective.

Treatment of Pyoderma in Dogs

Topicals your veterinarian may recommend include:

• Medicated shampoo: This shampoo may contain antibacterial and antifungal ingredients, such as chlorhexidine, ketoconazole, and/or miconazole. Benzoyl peroxide is an antibacterial ingredient often used in cases of acne. If your pet has recurrent infections, your veterinarian may recommend long-term use of a medicated shampoo.
• Medicated spray, mousse, or ointment: You may be instructed to spray or rub an antimicrobial product on your pet when they are dry. If your pet has recurrent infections, your veterinarian may recommend long-term use of one of these products.
• Clip and clean: For dogs with hot spots and other localized skin issues, the veterinary staff will clip the hair surrounding the affected area to prevent bacteria in the hair from causing a reinfection, and to allow air exposure. Then they will use a gentle antiseptic wash, such as 2 percent or 4 percent chlorhexidine solution to clean the area.
• Epsom salt foot soaks: Soaking affected paws in Epsom salt solution (two tablespoons per liter of warm water) may be recommended if your pet has inflammation and infection of its paws.

Recovery and Management of Pyoderma in Dogs

Re-check appointments with your veterinarian will ensure that your dogs infection has completely cleared before its antibiotic treatment has ended. Treatment may need to be continued for 7 to 14 days past when their skin appears normal, so please do not stop the antibiotics before a full course of treatment has been completed. Ending antibiotic treatment too early can contribute to the development of antibiotic resistance.

Infection often needs to be cleared before your veterinarian can begin investigating the underlying cause of the pyoderma. It is important to determine the underlying cause, whether it be allergies, Cushings disease, hypothyroidism, or another illness, so your dog doesnt experience frequent relapses of pyoderma.

Length of Treatment for Pyoderma in Dogs

The length of treatment will vary depending on the type and severity of your pets pyoderma. Many cases of superficial pyoderma require treatments lasting three to four weeks. Deep pyoderma may require treatment that lasts for months. Do not stop treatment without the direct recommendation of your pets veterinarian.

Pyoderma in Dogs FAQs

Is pyoderma in dogs contagious to humans?

It is rare for humans to catch pyoderma from their dogs, though it is possible (e.g., Staphylococcus aureus). Staphylococcus pseudintermedius, the most common cause of canine pyoderma, does not lead to disease in humans.

Is pyoderma in dogs considered a serious condition?

Pyoderma is typically easily treated on an outpatient basis with good outcomes. However, deep pyoderma can be more serious and in rare and extreme cases, require hospitalization.

Featured Image: iStock.com/momcilog

References

Gortel K. Recognizing Pyoderma. Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice. 2013;43(1):1-18. doi:10.1016/j.cvsm.2012.09.004

Poli G. MiniVET Guide: Companion Animal Medicine. Gerardo Poli; 2016.

Gortel K. Recognizing Pyoderma. Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice. 2013;43(1):1-18. doi:10.1016/j.cvsm.2012.09.004

Poli G. MiniVET Guide: Companion Animal Medicine. Gerardo Poli; 2016.

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WRITTEN BY

Stephanie Gaddam, DVM, MPH

Veterinarian

Dr. Stephanie Gaddam graduated from the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2018. She worked in small animal...

Dog Skin Infections: How To Spot The Signs & When To Seek Treatment

Is your dogs irritated skin giving you cause for concern? Youre not alone. Dogs are extremely prone to skin problems. In fact, skin conditions are the second most common ailment that dog parents face when seeking veterinary care.¹ We have had personal experience with skin issues in dogs before, too.

If your dog is itching or licking incessantly, has crusty dog skin conditions, or has patches of skin that dont look normal, your dog could have a skin infection. Find out what to look out for when its time to see your vet and other need-to-know information about skin infections.

Primary Causes Of Dog Skin Infections

There are two main types of skin infections in dogs: yeast and bacteria infections. Both yeast and bacteria normally reside on your dogs skin, but when something irritates them, they can proliferate, causing an infection. Many things can cause yeast and/or bacteria to multiply, but here are some of the most common causes:

• Excessive licking, chewing, or scratching
• Allergies to environmental factors, like pollen, dust, dust mites, mold, etc.
• Food allergies

As a pet parent, it can be difficult to determine whether your dog is suffering from a bacterial or yeast skin infection because symptoms can often be very similar. But well break down each type to help give you a better idea of what your dog may be experiencing.

Also, its fairly common for dogs to have both a yeast and bacterial skin infection simultaneously. So, keep in mind that its wise to seek veterinary attention if you suspect a skin infection because treatment can differ depending on the infection type(s).

Yeast Skin Infections

Yeast dermatitis, also called Malassezia dermatitis, is caused by the fungusMalassezia pachydermatis. Its an extremely common cause of skin infections in dogs. Yeast infections arent contagious. Although yeast infections can appear anywhere on a dogs body, some areas are especially prone: ears, skin folds, paw pads, or other hot, humid areas of the body.

Dogs with atopic dermatitis (allergic dermatitis) are more susceptible, as are immunocompromised dogs. An immune deficiency makes it hard for a dogs body to fight off yeast infections, resulting in chronic and recurring infections. Dogs who are taking steroids or antibiotics can also be more prone to yeast infections.

Predisposed Breeds

Some breeds are also genetically predisposed to developing yeast or fungal skin infections, including:

• Australian Terriers
• Basset Hounds
• Bulldogs
• Chihuahuas
• Cocker Spaniels
• Dachshunds
• Lhasa Apsos
• Maltese Terriers
• Poodles
• Pugs
• Shetland Sheepdogs
• West Highland White Terriers

Chronic conditions like yeast infections and skin diseases that require frequent vet visits and medication can drain your bank account. But, if you have one of these breeds thats prone to this ailment, you might consider investing in pet insurance from an early age (before a condition presents and becomes pre-existing). It is a great way to manage this risk along with other health and accident situations you and your pet may find yourselves in. Learn more about Pet Insurance.

Symptoms

The most prominent symptoms are excessive itching and inflamed skin, but other common symptoms of skin conditions include:

• Itching and redness
• Smelly skin
• Crusty, flaky skin
• Thickened skin
• Sores
• Sticky or yellow/green discharge
• Greasy coat
• Hyperpigmentation (darkly pigmented skin)
• Recurring ear infections

Treatment

Treatment for dog yeast skin infections depends on the severity of the infection. Its important to consult your vet so you can get a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Oral Treatment

In more severe or chronic cases of skin yeast infections, your vet may prescribe oral anti-fungal medications, including ketoconazole, itraconazole, and fluconazole.

Topical Treatment

You can use home remedies to treat cases of yeast infections that arent severe (just make sure you get a vets diagnosis first). Medicated shampoos are the best way to treat skin yeast infections. However, some dogs with especially oily or greasy skin may require an initial shampoo with Davis Benzoyl Peroxide Shampoo (or another pet shampoo containing benzoyl peroxide or selenium sulfide), which can help eliminate the excessive oil.

After you cut down the oil and grease, use an anti-fungal shampoo containing chlorhexidine, miconazole, or ketoconazole. We recommend KetoChlor Medicated Shampoo for dogs and cats.

• Make sure the anti-fungal shampoo stays on your dogs skin for at least 10 minutes.
• Dry your dog thoroughly after bathing with a clean towel.
• Repeat every three to five days until theres no sign of infection (this can take anywhere from 2 to 12 weeks).

Bacterial Skin Infections

A bacterial skin infection in dogs, also referred to as pyoderma or bacterial dermatitis, can occur in any breed or age, but older dogs are more susceptible due to a weaker immune system. Dogs with hypothyroidism are also more susceptible.The most common dog bacterial skin infection is a staph infection.

Symptoms

As we said above, some of the symptoms of bacterial skin infections are very similar to yeast infections. But there are some differences.

• Excessive scratching, licking, or chewing
• Red and inflamed skin
• Papules or pustules (pus-filled lesions on the skin that resemble human pimples)
• Dry or flaky patches of skin
• Patchy fur loss or bald patches
• Circular crusts that look like ringworm

Our Personal Experience With Bacterial Skin Issues On Dogs

One winter, my dogs skin became very red and itchy. A trip to the vet led us to discover it was a staph infection caused by skin allergies. Her dry skin was flaking off, and she had a bump on her belly that looked like a zit, which the vet said were both signs of a staph infection. She was prescribed an antibiotic and steroid, which helped immediately. Our vet said staph infections are the number one condition she sees during the winter months.

Kimberly Alt, rescue dog mom & Canine Journal pet insurance expert

Treatment

Dog skin infection treatments are similar for bacteria as they are for yeast.

Oral Treatment

In many cases, veterinarians prescribe an oral antibiotic to treat skin bacterial infections. Amoxicillin,cephalexin, andclindamycin are common prescriptions for this type of infection. It may be necessary for your vet to do a skin culture and antibiotic sensitivity test to make sure he prescribes the most effective antibiotic.

Thetypical treatment time is a minimum of three to four weeks, but in recurrent or chronic cases of infection, oral treatment can last as long as 12 weeks.

Topical Treatment

Although most cases require oral antibiotics, your vet may recommend a topical treatment if your dogs infection is mild. This can include antibacterial shampoosandsprays that you apply once or twice a week for three to four weeks.

You can also use these topical treatments in addition to antibiotics to help your dog recover from his infection more quickly.Its also important that your dog has clean, dry, and padded bedding.

Are Allergies The Culprit?

If your dog is frequently itchy or has recurring skin infections, allergies could be the reason. As we mentioned above, its important to consult your vet to properly diagnosis any skin allergiesyour dog is having. But you can also learn more about which foods and environmental factors could be causing your dog problems by giving him anat-home dog allergy test kit.

10 Home Remedies For Dog Skin Irritation

There are some home remedies you can try to alleviate symptoms and support your dogs skin health. Keep in mind that these remedies are not substitutes for professional veterinary care, especially if the infection is severe or doesnt improve with home treatment. Always consult with your veterinarian before trying any home remedies. Here are some suggestions:

1. Regular Baths: Keeping your dog sanitary is important for managing skin infections. Use a mild, veterinary-approved shampoo that wont irritate the skin further. Be sure to rinse thoroughly to remove all shampoo residue.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties. Dilute it with water (one part vinegar to one part water) and use it as a rinse after bathing your dog. Do not apply it to open wounds or raw skin as it may sting.
3. Coconut Oil: Coconut oil has moisturizing and antibacterial properties too. Apply a thin layer of organic, virgin coconut oil to affected areas to soothe the skin and potentially help fight off infections.
4. Oatmeal Baths: Oatmeal can help soothe itchy and irritated skin. Grind plain, uncooked oatmeal into a fine powder and add it to your dogs bathwater. Alternatively, you can use colloidal oatmeal products specifically formulated for dogs.
5. Honey: Raw, unpasteurized honey has natural antimicrobial properties. Apply a thin layer of honey to affected areas (avoiding the dogs eyes and mouth) and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes before gently rinsing it off.
6. Probiotics: Probiotic supplements or plain, unsweetened yogurt containing live cultures can help support your dogs immune system and promote healthy skin from the inside out.
7. Herbal Soaks: Some herbs, such as calendula, chamomile, and lavender, have soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. You can brew these herbs into a tea, let it cool, and use it as a skin rinse for your dog.
8. Aloe Vera: Aloe vera gel, especially when pure and free of additives like alcohol, can help soothe irritated skin. Apply a thin layer of aloe vera gel to the affected areas.
9. Keep the Area Clean & Dry: Moisture can exacerbate skin infections, so if your dog has long fur, consider trimming it to improve airflow.
10. Proper Diet: A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals is crucial for maintaining healthy skin and a strong immune system. Ensure your dog is receiving high-quality, nutritionally complete food.

Remember, while these home remedies may offer some relief for mild skin infections, they are not a substitute for professional veterinary care. If your dogs skin infection is severe, persistent, or worsening, its essential to consult with a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.

How Can I Soothe My Dogs Skin Irritation?

If your dogs skin is itchy and painful, you may want to consider using a CBD topical product to alleviate his symptoms (with your vets okay). CBD topical treatments are all-natural and could help soothe your dogs skin without interfering with prescription meds. Weve reviewed the best CBD oil companies, many of which carry topical CBD skin ointments or creams that can help soothe irritated skin until it clears up.

Why Trust Canine Journal?

Sally has over 20 years of experience in human health sciences communications, including 10 years as an expert on pet health conditions and treatment. Shes also spent over a decade researching pet insurance as part of an expert team at Canine Journal. As dedicated canine professionals and long-time dog owners, we test and research the best pet products, not only for our own pups but for all of our readers.

Sources: [1] Healthy Paws

Tagged With: Allergies, Skin