Yes, Dog Acne Does Exist

Acne or pimples are usually associated with people, particularly teenagers, but guess what. Dogs can get zits too! Dog acne affects many pooches, often causing them discomfort. This skin condition is most often found on puppies and young dogs; typically less than a year old. Usually the pimples are located on the chin and lips. The breeds that tend to be most affected by dog acne are Boxers, Rottweilers, Bulldogs, Golden Retrievers, Great Danes, Mastiffs, Weimaraners, and Doberman Pinschers. However, it can occur in any breed, but most often the short-coated ones.

Symptoms:

Dog acne is characterized by a few things. There will be a presence of red bumps and blackheads usually around the chin and lips that may progress to pus-filled lesions or blisters. Your dog may be experiencing itching and irritation. Therefore, he may be rubbing his face on the floor or against furniture. There may also be swelling and inflammation. However, you should not diagnose this as dog acne yourself. There are other more serious conditions that produce this same appearance such as mange, ringworm, and puppy strangles. You should consult your veterinarian to be sure your dog gets the proper treatment.


Causes:

There are different theories as to what causes dog acne. Irritation or blockage of the hair follicles can attribute to these symptoms. Bacteria build-up in the oil glands is another culprit. Genetics may predispose some dogs to this. Hormones also can play a part. Also, it is thought that trauma to the face can bring pimples about.

Prevention And Treatment:


Although dog acne can be hard to avoid in certain pups, one preventative measure to take is to always keep your dog's muzzle and chin as clean and dry as possible. Also, ensure that your dog is living, eating, drinking, and playing in sanitary conditions. However, if your dog does become afflicted with pimples do not, I repeat, do not squeeze them. It may be tempting to pop the zits and watch them ooze, but this will only make your dog's skin condition worse and lead to infection. A warm compress can be applied to soothe the area. Most of the time a simple topical treatment will help alleviate the irritation. This could be a cream or a shampoo containing benzoyl peroxide. Remember though, your dog's skin is sensitive and you should not try to use your own acne medication on him. The human treatments are too strong. Steroids or antibiotics may be prescribed in more severe cases. In most instances dog acne will resolve itself when your dog has grown out of his hormonal teenage years. So, just hang in there. Your dog will be ready for his close up soon enough.