Pyoderma in Dogs

Pyoderma in Dogs

Pyoderma in Dogs

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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 dog’s 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 pyoderma affects 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 dog’s 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 puppy’s 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 dog’s 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 Frisés, 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 dog’s 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.

This post was last modified on December 13, 2024 10:04 am