People usually associate pimples with those difficult teenage years when hormones are out of whack as sexual maturity approaches. Dogs can also get acne too, most commonly affecting their chin and muzzle. The pimples in canine acne are caused by folliculitis, which is inflammation of the hair follicles. As it progresses the hair follicles can rupture and cause a deeper infection called furunculosis.
For some young dogs acne will spontaneously resolve when they reach adulthood, while for others it is associated with underlying conditions like allergies, demodex mites, hypothyroidism or ringworm.
Your vet may diagnose the condition based on how your dog presents and their medical history. They may also opt for other diagnostics, such as skin scrapings, bacterial cultures, or biopsies, to check for potential causes. Treatment options will vary depending on any underlying causes and triggers that have been identified.
The 10 Potential Ways to Treat Dog Acne
1. Swapping Plastic for Ceramic or Stainless Steel Bowls
A solution to your dog’s acne may be as simple as swapping their plastic food bowls for ceramic or stainless steel ones. Some pets are sensitive to the materials used to produce these items. The other concern is the bacteria plastic may harbor. It can develop scratches from repeated cleaning that can provide places for pathogens to grow. Unfortunately, plastic is virtually impossible to clean thoroughly.
2. Washing Your Dog’s Face After Meals
Acne is an inflammatory response. Washing your pup’s face after eating can limit the bacteria that can trigger acne. You should use warm water and a soft cloth to gently clean their face and muzzle. Make sure to dry them after washing.
3. Medicated Wipes
You can take mere washing to the next level with medicated or cleansing wipes. They can do a better job of getting your dog clean after eating or playing outside. Medicated wipes contain antiseptic ingredients such as chlorhexidine and can also help treat or prevent bacterial and fungal skin infections. Make sure to get a product that is safe to use on your dog’s face to prevent aggravating a pre-existing condition. You can’t beat the convenience and safety of using a disposable wipe.
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4. Topical Benzoyl Peroxide Cream
Vets often prescribe topical benzoyl peroxide to treat dog pimples. It helps unblock hair follicles that can cause canine acne. This treatment works best in mild cases when combined with improved hygiene. Make sure to use products formulated for dogs. Human topical treatments may be too harsh for your pooch.
5. Medicated Shampoo
Your vet may also recommend an anti-bacterial and anti-fungal shampoo. It may be more convenient if other parts of your dog are affected. One bath can cover all the bases. Be sure to read the instructions on the bottle and avoid getting the product in your dog’s eyes or ears.
6. Oral or Topical Steroids
Your vet may prescribe oral or topical steroids such as prednisolone for chronic or more difficult-to-treat cases. These medications go to the source of the inflammation to control the problem. However, steroids bring other issues to the table regarding the dosage, side effects, and discontinuation of the drugs. Follow your vet’s instructions carefully when using these meds.
7. Oral or Topical Antifungals
Ringworm is another possible cause of acne-like bumps on the skin, requiring treatment with oral or topical antifungals. It’s worth noting that ringworm is zoonotic and transmissible to people. Your vet will advise you about the necessary precautions if it’s at the root of the problem.
8. Topical or Oral Antibiotics
Secondary bacterial infections may accompany canine acne, especially if your dog paws at their snout and face. That can necessitate topical or oral antibiotics to treat these conditions.
9. Elimination Diet
Food allergies can cause skin conditions like dog pimples. If your vet has ruled out other triggers, they may suggest an elimination diet to determine if your pet is allergic to something they’re eating. A gold standard test doesn’t exist, making this approach the best way to manage allergies. Interestingly, canines are more likely to have issues with animal proteins such as chicken or beef than grains.
10. Prevention of Facial Trauma
Some pets bring on dog pimples with trauma to their snout. Diggers are vulnerable when they root around in the grass and soil. Unfortunately, that’s also where bacteria and fungi exist, setting the animals up for trouble. For dogs with environmental or food allergies, the itchiness can cause them to rub and scratch their face, breaking the short hairs and pushing them into the follicles.
If you notice a pattern in your pet’s condition, try to find a way to break the cycle to prevent recurrences. If your vet diagnoses your dog with an underlying allergy they may need anti-itch allergy medications to reduce the self trauma.
Other Factors
Other factors may affect your dog’s susceptibility to canine acne. For example, hairless dogs have a greater propensity for developing this condition. Short-haired breeds, such as Great Danes, Boxers, and Bulldogs, are also more likely to suffer from acne and there may be a genetic element.
Conclusion
Dog pimples can have varied causes. Mild cases in young dogs are often self-limiting. Others require veterinary intervention to treat and prevent it. We recommend discussing the issue with your vet if you notice anything unusual about your pet’s appearance. Treating these problems promptly is always best to avoid complications that can prolong treatment and your pet’s discomfort.
Featured Image Credit: Yekatseryna Netuk, Shutterstock