At what age do Boxer dogs get acne
Dog Pimples: An Expert Guide to Acne in Dogs
Can dogs get zits?
Yes, they sure can. (And cats can get zits, too.)
Dog pimples, zits, acne, plukes, spots call them what you like, but pimples are definitely a canine thing.
Much like human acne affects teenagers, dog acne tends to affect young dogs. However, unlike in people, the cause of dog acne isnt hormonal but more down to hygiene and genetics.
In this expert guide, well discuss:
- How long do dog pimples last?
- Can I pop a pimple on my dog?
- Whats a good dog acne shampoo?
- Are there dog acne home remedies?
But first, crucial to clearing up dog pimples is understanding why they happen in the first place.
Acne Disorders in Dogs
Its the youngsters who get dog acne.
Think of a bumbling puppy in that oh-so-cute 3- to 12-month age bracket, and these are the guys most likely to get dog pimples.
The most common place for dog acne is on the muzzle and lips. Some dogs also get spots on the belly, but this tends not to be labeled as acne but more as a spotty tummy. (See my article on hyperpigmentation in dogs.)
Oh, and another quirk is that short-coated dogs are more prone to acne the reason for which will soon become clear.
Can Dogs Get Zits?
Yes, and heres why dogs get pimples on their body
What do dogs love to do? They investigate everything with their mouth, thats what.
All that sniffing, chewing, rubbing and biting is hard work for an inquisitive muzzle.
Research now suggests that a playful puppy who is rubbing their chin on a hard surface causes damage to the hairs:
- If these hairs snap off below the skin surface, that sharp bristle causes the hair follicle to inflame.
- With the hair follicle damaged by inflammation, this gives bacteria an open invitation to invade. With lots of bacteria hanging around the broken hair shaft, this is the perfect recipe for dog acne to develop.
- If the spot gets big enough, it ruptures, which leads to a weeping sore. This is also itchy, which leads to a vicious circle of more rubbing, more broken hairs and more dog pimples.
Breed Predisposition to Dog Pimples
Some dogs just have the odds stacked against them because of their breed.
Here are some of the dog breeds predisposed to dog pimples:
These breeds have a genetic predisposition, inherited from their parents, for developing acne.
Its also interesting to note that most of these dogs are short coated. This fits with what we now know about broken hair shafts inflaming the follicles.
What Does Dog Acne Look Like?
Lets say your dog has bumps on the chin and around the mouth that could very well be acne.
Classic dog acne affects the dogs muzzle, particularly the chin and lips.
Mild acne looks like raised red bumps on the skin. Be sure to look closely: Sometimes the bumps that whiskers grow from, which are perfectly normal, can be mistaken for acne spots.
What Is a Pustule on a Dog?
If those red bumps come to a head, they become whiteheads or the all-too-familiar pimple (more correctly called a pustule). This can be sterile (no bacteria present) or infected (contains bacteria).
Severe acne with lots of dog pimples causes general soreness and swelling. This inflammation makes the skin of the lips and muzzle swell, giving them a fat face.
If the dog then rubs (and who wouldnt?), the zits burst and continued rubbing turns them into bleeding wounds.
Dog acne bleeding requires veterinary attention to prevent scarring, because continued rubbing leads to permanent scar tissue.
Can I Pop a Pimple on My Dog?
No, popping your dogs pimples is not a good idea.
Bursting those zits may be tempting, but its also traumatic to the skin and does more harm than good.
So resist temptation. Instead, try one of the treatment options listed below.
But, it needs to be said, seeing a veterinarian is important. Never assume the problem is simple dog acne, because the problem can be complex.
Skin immunity plays a big part in preventing acne. If the dogs immune system is weak, there may be another more serious condition that needs investigating. The acne then becomes a symptom of a bigger problem, rather than a diagnosis in its own right.
Examples of these predisposing factors include allergy, ringworm or Demodex mites. Either way, a correct diagnosis makes the difference between the treatment working or not.
OK, for those already with a diagnosis of uncomplicated dog pimples, now we will talk about treatments and solutions for dog acne.
Dog Acne Treatments
You cant do anything about the dogs age or breed (both of those things predispose the dog to acne), but you can help their personal hygiene.
Follicle Flushing
Follicle flushing means washing out those dirty hair follicles to keep them sparkling clean. The idea is to remove the bacteria that cause infection and to stop those pimples from developing.
This way, when you resist pimple popping and once the inflammation settles down, theres no evidence the dog ever had a spot.
Follicle flushing is done using medicated shampoo. So whats the best dog acne shampoo?
Look for a dog acne shampoo that contains benzyl peroxide. Yes, this may sound familiar from human acne treatments, but do not use the human version of the shampoo. Its far too strong and burns dog skin, giving a new set of different problems.
You can use a dog acne shampoo in a similar way a teenager uses a facial wash: Wet the dogs skin, work in a bit of shampoo and then rinse well.
Dog Acne and Antibiotics
If the acne is particularly bad or there are bleeding spots, the vet may prescribe antibiotics.
The most common bacteria causing canine acne are theStaphylococcus group, since these are normal residents on the surface of canine skin. Using a good broad-spectrum antibiotic, especially in a dog whos never had antibiotics before, is likely to do the trick.
If the acne keeps flaring up, the vet may then suggest swabbing the skin, to harvest some of the bacteria for culture. This allows for targeted antibiotic usage so the bacteria dont stand a chance.
The antibiotics are usually taken by mouth rather than applied as an ointment. The therapy needs to work from the inside out in order to be effective.
A long course of several weeks may also be needed. Stopping therapy too early can run the risk of a relapse.
Dog Acne and Steroids
If the swelling is particularly bad or the dog just cant stop scratching, the vet may suggest steroids.
This may either be a topical gel, injection or tablets.
The idea is to reduce the swelling and give the dog relief from the discomfort. By reducing the urge to itch, the dog is less likely to damage themselves, which allows things to settle down.
Of course, using steroids in young dogs is not ideal. Which means it makes even more sense to tackle the pimples early when its easier to soothe things away.
How Long Do Dog Pimples Last?
Even with medication, it can take 412 weeks for severe acne to settle down.
But the good news is that individual pimples will be gone in a matter of days or weeks. So if you can keep the skin clean, theres a good chance things will look up soon.
And for those who prefer to try natural remedies, below are some options to try.
How to Get Rid of Dog Acne the Natural Way
The first option is common sense, and its cleanliness.
If your dog gets a grubby chin from rooting around in dirt, give the dog a bath. This doesnt have to be a full scale shower a clean, moist facecloth around the chops should do the trick.
Do Not Use Coconut Oil for Dog Acne
On the plus side, coconut oil has mild natural antibiotic and antiseptic qualities. Great.
But
On the minus side, this is an oil, so plugging the follicles with a greasy substance could actually feed the bacteria. Given that the antibacterial action is weak, the cons probably out weight the pros. This is why I do not recommend using coconut oil for dog acne.
But dont despair, because there are other natural remedies to try.
Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
- Dilute the apple cider vinegar to half strength using warm water.
- Soak some cotton wool with this diluted solution and use it to wipe the dogs chin clean.
This makes the most of ACVs mild antimicrobial and antiseptic properties.
ACV is most effective when used as a preventive measure in acne-prone dogs rather than as a treatment for a full-scale acne flare-up.
Green Tea
Among its beneficial properties, green tea is mildly astringent when applied to the skin. Its also said to have some anti-itch properties, which relieve the dogs need to scratch.
- Make the tea as normal and leave it to cool.
- Then apply topically: Soak some cotton wool in the tea and wipe your dogs chin clean.
Aloe Vera
Known for its antibacterial and soothing properties, aloe vera gel can calm sensitized skin. Apply after bathing the dogs chin.
Aloe vera has the added benefit of hydrating the skin, which may be dried out by washing.
Nettle
Nettle infusion is an old remedy used for alleviating the discomfort caused by conditions such as eczema and acne.
Calendula
This is another traditional remedy to aid skin healing.
- Use a tincture of Calendula, diluting about 6 drops in 1 ounce of water.
- Use this to moisten some cotton wool, and then bathe the dogs chin as before.
Final Thoughts on Dog Pimples
Dog acne has different causes from those leading to human acne.
Good hygiene makes a big difference, but sadly, acne could just be in your dogs genes.
Get a spotty pup checked out by the vet. Fingers crossed its just a matter of using a medicated wash, but sometimes antibiotics are necessary.
But whatever you do, do not start popping your dogs pimples that can lead to scar tissue.
References
- Barnette, Catherine, DVM. Acne in Dogs. VCA Hospitals. 2017. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/acne-in-dogs.
- Spiegel, Ian B., VMD, MHS, DACVD. Just Ask the Expert: How Do You Manage Canine Chin Acne? dvm360. Feb. 1, 2011. http://veterinarymedicine.dvm360.com/just-ask-expert-how-do-you-manage-canine-chin-acne.
- Moriello, Karen A., DVM, DACVD. Overview of Pyoderma. Merck Veterinary Manual. https://www.msdvetmanual.com/integumentary-system/pyoderma/overview-of-pyoderma.
This pet health content was written by a veterinarian,
Dr. Pippa Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS. It was last reviewed April 5, 2022.
If you have questions or concerns, call your vet, who is best equipped to ensure the health and well-being of your pet. This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. See
additional information.
Dog Acne
What Is Dog Acne?
Dog acne is inflammation of the lips and the skin of the muzzle, which can appear as red bumps or pimples on the skin. Acne may begin as folliculitis, which is when short hairs push below the skins surface and become inflamed.
Acne may also occur due to furunculosis, which is when the hair follicle under the skin (also known as muzzle folliculitis and furunculosis) becomes painful, infected, and inflamed, often filled with pus. This occurs when short hairs on the surface of the skin break and are pushed below the skin surface in the follicle.
In both these cases, there is trauma to the tissues, and it can create a chronic condition in which secondary bacterial or fungal infections can complicate the process.
This condition is fairly common in young, short, coated breeds of dogs.
Symptoms of Dog Acne
Dog acne most commonly appears on the bottom of the chin, skin around the mouth, and lower lips. It can look like red bumps, hairless areas, and swelling of the muzzle. As the condition progresses, the bumps can become infected, grow, ooze, or drain fluid.
Causes of Dog Acne
Although the cause of dog acne is often unknown, possible factors include:
Skin damage from rough play or rubbing the face on a rough surface
Itching and rubbing triggered by an underlying skin allergy
Age (most dogs with chin acne are between 6 months and a year old)
Short hair breeds, such as Boxer, Doberman Pinscher, English Bulldog, Great Dane, Weimaraner, English Mastiff, Rottweiler, and German Short Haired Pointer
Dog acne is unique in that typically the only area of the dog affected is the muzzle.
In many cases, the cause of acne is unknown. Some possible causes are localized trauma from rough play or rubbing face on carpet or on rough surfaces. Some pets itch and rub from underlying skin allergies (that affect many parts of the body), and this can complicate or cause the initial acne flare. Not all dogs of the short haired breeds develop chin acne, so its likely genetics and environmental causes play a role in this condition.
How Veterinarians Diagnose Dog Acne
It is important to schedule a visit with your veterinarian if you believe your dog has developed acne and is exhibiting any of the above symptoms.
Your veterinarian will want to rule out other conditions, such as:
Demodicosis: A type of mange that is typically diagnosed through an examine of skin scrapings under a microscope.
Ringworm: In its early stages this fungus resembles acne, so your veterinarian will pluck several hairs for a culture. It typically takes 10 to 14 days to determine whether there is a fungal infection.
Puppy Strangles: A skin disorder that appears in puppies and can resemble acne.
Typically, your veterinarian will do a thorough examination and ask for history regarding diet, treats, supplements, and home environment (your vet may ask about the types of dishes used for pets or whether other pets are in the home). Some pets can have a contact reaction to plastic bowls. Also, it is possible that contamination of bacteria or yeast can hide in micro scratches on plastic dishes.
Your vet may also take skin samples to look for secondary bacteria, yeast, or Demodex mites and possibly order a dermatophyte fungal culture. A bacterial culture may be taken if the acne shows signs of draining to identify the type of bacteria.
In rare cases, a biopsy may be performed to check deep disease, unusual lesions, or cases not responding to therapy.
Treatment of Dog Acne
Treatment of dog acne can include medication, dietary changes, and behavioral therapy.
Your veterinarian may prescribe topical or oral medications to reduce inflammation and fight any bacterial infection, if necessary. Medications can include:
Anti-inflammatories
Antibiotics
Antifungals
Your vet may suggest behavioral therapy to help your dog avoid injuring the area from rough play or rubbing their face on rough surfaces. Your vet may also recommend how to properly clean the infected area to prevent secondary infections.
If your vet finds that your dog has an underlying allergy, they may suggest diet therapy, supplements, and allergy medications (prescription or over-the-counter).
Recovery and Management of Dog Acne
Most dogs with acne recover with proper treatment but do require management, which may include preventing recurring trauma, using topical medications during flare ups, and long-term allergy management if necessary. Some severe cases can result in scarring and can be prone to lesion recurrence.
Dog Acne FAQs
What can I do at home to help my dog's acne?
Behavioral modification to limit contact with rough surfaces or rough play can help limit hair breakage. Keeping the chin area clean and dry can help prevent secondary infections.
Will dog acne go away on its own?
Because the follicle becomes inflamed when the broken hair is pushed deep under the skin, dog chin acne usually requires some form of treatment. The treatment may be mild to significant depending on the individual case. Some dogs with a deep skin infection (pyoderma) may require several months on medications.
Is dog acne contagious?
Most often dog acne is not contagious. If there is a secondary bacterial or fungal infection, the chance of spreading the infection is minimal.
References
Short Jeanmarie DMV.VINcyclopedia of Diseases. Furunculosis/Folliculitis, Muzzle (Canine). Doerr, Katherine DMV. Muzzle Folliculitis and Furunculosis (Chin Acne, Muzzle Acne) in Dogs. Veterinary Partner, 9 June 2020, veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&catId=102899&id=9707008.
Featured Image: iStock.com/Aladino Gonzalez
Short Jeanmarie DMV.VINcyclopedia of Diseases. Furunculosis/Folliculitis, Muzzle (Canine). Doerr, Katherine DMV. Muzzle Folliculitis and Furunculosis (Chin Acne, Muzzle Acne) in Dogs. Veterinary Partner, 9 June 2020, veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&catId=102899&id=9707008.
Featured Image: iStock.com/Aladino Gonzalez
WRITTEN BY
Amanda Simonson, DVMVeterinarian
I am a veterinarian passionate about helping animals. I practiced for 15 years in the hospital setting doing medicine, surgery, preventive...
