Pyoderma is one of the skin conditions that can occur in dogs. It’s a bacterial infection that can affect any dog, but some are more susceptible to it than others. Here’s what to know about pyoderma in dogs:

What is Pyoderma in Dogs?

Pyoderma is the medical term for a skin infection caused by bacteria. This covers a wide range of skin irritations, which is why Pyoderma is one of the most common skin problems that occur in dogs. Additionally, dogs have a thinner skin barrier than many other animals and a higher pH level.

These specific features of dogs’ skin make it easier for bacteria to enter and allow for bacteria on the skin to multiply faster than other animals. Because of this, dogs are at an increased an increased risk for pyoderma. This is also why skin problems are one of the most common health problems in dogs.

If the normal skin barrier is damaged, this can make dogs much more susceptible to pyoderma because it makes it even easier for bacteria to enter and cause infection. This type of damage is often caused by dogs who excessively lick and scratch at their skin.

Pests, allergies, and more are all reasons why your dog is so itchy. Scratching only exacerbates the issue and can lead to pyoderma, which often increases itching and scratching. Any part of a dog’s skin can become infected with pyoderma depending on the kind found on your dog.

3 Types of Pyoderma in Dogs

There are a few different kinds of pyoderma that can affect a dog’s skin.

1. Surface

Surface pyoderma just affects the epidermis or the outer skin layer of skin. Pink and irritated skin is a common symptom of surface pyoderma. Hair loss can also occur, caused either by the pyoderma itself or as a side effect of your dog’s chewing, licking, and scratching.

Hot Spots

Surface pyoderma includes pyotraumatic dermatitis, which is also called hot spots. This type of pyoderma “comes in hot”. It has a rapid onset and is extremely itchy.

Intertrigo

Intertrigo is another type of surface pyoderma and is an infection of the skin folds. This is a common type of pyoderma in breeds with short muzzles and lots of wrinkles, like English Bulldogs.

BOGS

The last type of surface pyoderma is bacterial overgrowth syndrome (BOGS). Itchy and greasy skin are common symptoms of active BOGS. Usually, it’s accompanied by an unpleasant odor. This type of surface pyoderma occurs mostly on the body’s underside.

2. Superficial

When a dog develops superficial pyoderma, it also affects the outer layer of skin in addition to part of the hair follicles. Redness, bumps, and circular crusts may appear on the skin. Like surface pyoderma, you may also see hair loss with superficial pyoderma. There are three kinds of superficial pyoderma: impetigo, superficial bacterial folliculitis (SBF) superficial spreading pyoderma, and Mucocutaneous pyoderma

Impetigo

Impetigo is sometimes called “puppy pyoderma”. It usually occurs because a puppy’s immune system is still developing, which leaves them vulnerable to infection. This type of pyoderma can also occur in adult dogs with an immunocompromised system.

Impetigo in dogs tends to affect areas of the skin that don’t have as much fur, like the belly. Even if they end up with impetigo, puppies affected by it are still usually healthy overall. Topical treatment may be all that is needed in mild cases.

SBF

The second kind of superficial pyoderma is superficial bacterial folliculitis (SBF) and superficial spreading pyoderma. This type of pyoderma causes widespread hair loss in dogs, which can make their coat look “moth-eaten.” SBF can occur in any dog breed, but some herding dogs like Shetland Sheepdogs, Collies, Border Collies, and Australian Shepherds are more likely to have severe irritation and redness.

Mucocutaneous Pyoderma

Mucocutaneous pyoderma is the last type of superficial pyoderma. Mucocutaneous pyoderma affects mucosal areas of the body and can cause an overproduction of mucus. When this occurs, the most commonly affected areas are on the face and around the genitals.

The skin around the eyes, the lips, and the nose are commonly affected areas on the face and the vulva or prepuce and the anus are also commonly affected. Bichon Frisé and Poodles are predisposed to some types of skin irritations and may also be predisposed to this type of superficial pyoderma.

3. Deep

When pyoderma affects deeper skin layers, like the dermis and subcutis, it’s classified as deep pyoderma. If skin follicles rupture or if superficial pyoderma is not treated, it can develop into deep pyoderma.

If your dog develops deep pyoderma, you may see swelling, purplish areas, or tracts of drainage from infection. You might also see crusting, redness, and hair loss. There are a few kinds of deep pyoderma:

Furunculosis

When furunculosis occurs, it is often found between a dog’s toes. Although less common, it can appear on other parts of the body. Post-grooming furunculosis refers to furunculosis that shows up a day or two after intense grooming. It is a rare case, but it can happen and causes fever and pain.

Other Types of Deep Pyoderma

Other types of deep pyoderma include:

• Acne: Acne is caused by the inflammation of hair follicles. It generally occurs in the follicles located around the mouth and chin. Like humans, it tends to occur more often in young dogs. Inflammation can turn into a bacterial infection.
• Callus Pyoderma: Callus pyoderma shows up as dark and thickened skin over infected pressure points.
• Lick Granuloma: Dogs may develop skin lesions from excessively licking their lower legs, which can be caused by an infection or other issues.
• German Shepherd Deep Pyoderma: This type affects specifically German Shepherds or crossbreeds of German Shepherds. It commonly affects the trunk, groin, and outer thighs.

What Causes Pyoderma in Dogs?

There are several different causes of pyoderma in dogs.

Other Illnesses

Pyoderma is often secondary to or a complication of another illness or disease. Some of these illnesses or diseases include hormonal imbalances, immune disorders, and endocrine diseases, such as hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease.

Skin Parasites, Medications, & Allergies

Fleas, ticks, fungal and yeast infections, and some medications may increase your dog’s risk of developing pyoderma. An allergy to certain environmental allergens or a food ingredient can also cause pyoderma. Puppies are susceptible to puppy pyoderma in areas like the groin and underarms where the hair is thinner.

Bacterial Infections

Bacterial infections are another cause of pyoderma. These infections occur if the barrier of the skin is damaged or broken or if the skin is exposed to excessive amounts of moisture. They can also happen when the naturally occurring skin bacteria is altered. Immunosuppression and impaired blood flow to the skin may also cause the skin to be susceptible to a bacterial infection.

Staphylococcus pseudintermedius is the most common type of bacteria and is responsible for causing nearly 90% of cases of pyoderma. This type of bacteria is typically found on the skin, but if the skin barrier is susceptible, the bacteria can multiply in number which will cause an infection.

Infected Skin Folds

There is a certain type of pyoderma known as skin fold pyoderma, which is found in folds of the skin. These skin folds include the areas of the face, lips, and tail, as well as the groin area or in the armpits. This type of pyoderma can also develop in the area of the mammary glands of female dogs, especially those who’ve given birth to more than a few litters of puppies.

Skin fold pyoderma can be a complication of obesity when there are too many skin folds. These skin folds are in close proximity which creates a warm and moist environment. When there is too much moisture, this normally common skin bacteria multiplies, leading to an infection of the skin fold. This is just one of the reasons to help an overweight dog get healthy.

Is Pyoderma in Dogs Contagious?

Pyoderma itself is not contagious, meaning they can’t catch pyoderma from another dog. However, it is important to know that the underlying cause (such as a bacterial infection) may be contagious.

If you know of a dog your dog is in contact with has an infection that can cause pyoderma, be sure to keep them separated to avoid contamination until that infection has cleared up. Be extra cautious with puppies as their immune system is not as strong as an adult dog’s.

Common Symptoms of Pyoderma in Dogs

A very common symptom of pyoderma in dogs is red, crusty skin and they’ll be very itchy. They may also have small red bumps called pustules forming on the skin and can look like pimples. The pustules will be raised, have red spots, and have centers filled with pus. You might also have circular crusts, flaky skin, and spots of hair loss.

If your dog has had itchy skin for more than a few weeks, the skin may become thicker and look darker. There might also be moisture on the skin or a musty odor. This odor will be found particularly on their paws between toes but it can also be among skin folds. If you have a short-haired breed, you may notice that their coat appears to stick up in areas or see areas of patchy hair loss.

Dogs that have deep pyoderma may experience tracts of infection with swelling and draining. They may also exhibit a lack of appetite, signs of pain, low energy, and trembling. These are some symptoms you should never ignore in your dog.

How is Pyoderma in Dogs Diagnosed?

If pyoderma is suspected, your vet will begin with a physical exam of the skin. They’ll evaluate your dog’s medical history, clinical signs will be taken into account, and blood tests may be done. These tests may help determine if an endocrine disease is the cause, such as thyroid disease or Cushing’s Disease.

Your vet may also take skin cultures as well as antibiotic sensitivity tests to rule any other causes out. A fungal culture may also be taken. If your vet sees signs of allergic dermatitis, an allergy test will be administered to pinpoint the specific allergy.

How to Treat Pyoderma in Dogs

If your dog has been diagnosed with pyoderma and a cause has been determined, your vet will want to treat the skin and address the underlying cause. For example, if allergies are determined to be a cause, your vet will offer treatments for the allergies and then treatments for the skin. Treatments for skin infections can include:

1. Medication

Antibiotics and anti-itch medications are popular treatments for pyoderma. Antihistamines help alleviate allergies and while there are some over-the-counter medications that are safe for dogs, you should talk to your vet before administering any medication.

Antibiotics

Antibiotics including amoxicillin or cephalexin are a common treatment of pyoderma in dogs. These medications are often administered for up to four weeks, depending on your veterinarian’s assessment of the disease. Most of these antibiotics are taken orally, but there is an injectable antibiotic your vet can administer.

If your dog has an antibiotic-resistant infection or has a chronic case of pyoderma, another round of different antibiotics might be required. These antibiotics may need to be given for 8-12 weeks.

Anti-Itch Medication

Sometimes your dog will be given anti-itch medications to help calm the skin and keep your dog from scratching. These medications may be given alongside steroids to help reduce inflammation. You should see the skin clearing up within a few days, but if you don’t, give your vet a call.

2. Topical Treatments

There are a few topical treatments your vet may recommend and these treatments can include:

Medicated Shampoos

There are medicated shampoos available that contain certain ingredients to combat bacterial and fungal infections. Antifungal ingredients include ketoconazole, miconazole or both. Shampoos focused on combating bacterial infections typically contain benzoyl peroxide, chlorhexidine, or sulfur with salicylic acid.

Benzoyl peroxide is used as an antibacterial ingredient and is often used to treat acne. You may need to use these on your dog once or twice per week for up to four weeks. Your veterinarian may recommend using medicated shampoos if your dog has recurring infections to mitigate the issue.

Medicated Sprays or Ointments

Sometimes your vet may prescribe a topical antimicrobial spray to spray on and rub onto your dog when they’re dry. Your vet may recommend using these products long-term if your dog has recurrent infections.

You may need to clip skin folds and use medicated wipes on the folds. You should try your best to keep the area affected with pyoderma clean. Good hygiene and dry, clean bedding are not only important when trying to help your dog survive seasonal allergies, but it’s also useful in treating pyoderma.

What is the Prognosis for Dogs With Pyoderma?

If your dog has a case of pyoderma not caused by an underlying condition, recovery is expected with good results. Most of these cases of pyoderma will require oral antibiotics, topical therapy, or both. Chronic or recurrent cases of pyoderma might need more testing to see if there’s an underlying condition.

If there’s an underlying condition causing pyoderma, that will need to be addressed and treated along with the pyoderma. Medicated shampoos and other topical treatments can help mitigate recurring infections.

This is an overview of what to know about pyoderma in dogs. The good news is that it’s typically easily treated at an outpatient level. However, in cases of deep pyoderma, it can be more serious and in extreme cases, require hospitalization. If you suspect pyoderma, be sure to get in touch with your vet for treatment!