Skin infections in dogs are a common reason pet parents take their dogs to the veterinarian — because who can sleep when their dog is scratching all night? You want to get to the bottom of what's causing them discomfort fast, and we're here to help.
Whether your dog is dealing with a mild irritation or severe condition requiring medical treatment, staying informed about skin conditions in dogs can help you recognize the first sign of a problem so you can get your pup the attention they need. Understanding what causes skin infections in dogs, as well as common signs to look out for and actionable ways to reduce your dog's risk of developing a skin infection, is a great place to start.
What Causes Skin Infections in Dogs?
Skin infections are primarily a result of yeast and bacteria overgrowth on the skin's surface, but both of these are often caused by an underlying condition.
Normal, healthy dog skin houses several species of microorganisms on its outermost surface. These organisms include yeast (Malassezia pachydermatis) and bacteria (Staphylococcus), and they have a symbiotic relationship with their host — your dog. They support healthy skin function, help regulate immune response and prevent potentially harmful microorganisms from colonizing on the skin. However, anything that irritates, traumatizes or otherwise harms the surface of your dog's skin can result in yeast and bacteria overgrowth, which can cause a secondary skin infection.
Skin Allergies
Affecting up to 15% of the dog population, atopic dermatitis is one of the most common causes of skin infections in dogs. Skin allergies include flea allergies, environmental allergies and food allergies. Allergic dogs often wear down their skin due to excessive scratching, leaving it vulnerable to infection. In addition, dogs with allergies typically have a disrupted skin barrier, which allows yeast and bacteria to overcolonize the skin and cause problems.
Skin Fold Dermatitis
Dogs who have wrinkles around their face, tail or armpits, such as bulldogs, pugs and boxers, are generally prone to repeat skin infections in these areas. This is because the skin fold creates a moist environment where yeast and bacteria can thrive.
External Parasites
Fleas, ticks and skin mites, like scabies and demodex, chew on and irritate the skin's surface, resulting in secondary skin infections.
Hormonal Imbalances
Endocrine disorders such as diabetes, Cushing's syndrome and thyroid disease can all cause skin changes in dogs that may result in secondary skin infections.
Trauma
Anything that irritates your dog — think a foxtail stuck in the paw — can cause them to lick and chew the skin, which ultimately creates an entry point to bacteria and can result in a secondary infection. This concept also applies to bites, wounds and abrasions.
Autoimmune Disorders
Dogs who are immunocompromised or have an autoimmune skin disease, like pemphigus (often characterized by skin blisters), are at higher risk of skin infections.
Immunosuppressive Drugs
Dogs undergoing treatment with drugs that can suppress the immune system, such as steroids, cyclosporine or chemotherapy, are at increased risk for skin infections.
Poor Nutrition
Malnourished dogs have lowered immunity compared to healthy dogs, which can make them more vulnerable to secondary skin infections.
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The Signs of Skin Infections in Dogs
Skin infections can be localized to one area of the body, multifocal (appearing in different areas) or generalized (all over the body). The specific signs of a skin infection in dogs depends on the type of infection.
Bacterial
The signs of a bacterial skin infection (i.e., pyoderma) in dogs include:
- Redness/rash
- Hair loss
- Itchiness
- Pimples
- Crusting
- Excessive shedding
- Open wounds oozing with serum or pus
- Nodules
- Blackheads
- Tenderness
Yeast
The signs of a yeast skin infection in dogs include:
- Redness/rash
- Hair loss
- Itchiness
- Excessive dandruff
- Skin odor
- Thickened, hyperpigmented (black) skin
Diagnosis and Treatment of Skin Infections in Dogs
Skin infections are very common in dogs, and vets have many tools at their disposal to identify the problem and provide a solution.
In dogs, skin infections are typically diagnosed with a combination of physical examination and laboratory testing. Your vet will also want to hear what's been happening with your dog at home and whether they have any history of skin disease. After they examine your dog, your vet will typically want to run some or all of the following tests:
- Microscopic examination of a skin scrape
- Bacterial or fungal culture
- Wood's lamp test to help rule out ringworm (confirmed by a fungal culture)
The good news is that, once diagnosed, treating skin infections is fairly straightforward. Your vet will prescribe antibiotics or antifungal therapy. They may recommend oral, injectable and/or topical antimicrobial medications to treat your dog from the inside out. Topical therapies can also include medicated shampoos, lotions, sprays, cream rinses and wipes.
Your vet will likely also perform testing, such as bloodwork or a skin biopsy, to determine the underlying cause of the skin infection, if applicable. Based on their findings, they may recommend flea control, allergen avoidance, hormone therapy or switching to a therapeutic food formulated for skin issues.
Prevention of Skin Infections in Dogs
Fortunately, proper hygiene and regular vet check-ups can often help prevent skin infections in dogs. Here are some quick tips to help reduce your dog's risk of skin infections:
- Clean skin folds regularly.
- Ask your vet about flea and tick prevention.
- Brush your dog regularly.
- Contact your vet at the first sign of any concerns.
- Stay on top of wellness visits to identify and treat any underlying conditions.
- Feed your dog a complete and balanced dog food.
While skin infections are common in dogs, your vet can help you manage and often cure the condition so your dog can get back to feeling their best. Never hesitate to reach out to your vet for help, and continue staying informed and being proactive — it's the best way to show your dog you care!
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