What Is Pyoderma In Dogs?

by Britt

Published: February 9th, 2024

Photo credit: Zivica Kerkez / Shutterstock.com

The sight of an itchy dog often raises concerns among pet parents. From parasites, like fleas and ticks, to uncomfortable skin issues and irritation, the explanation is rarely a positive one. In some cases, even finding a cause is an uphill battle.

One condition you may have read about or heard your veterinarian mention is pyoderma. But what is pyoderma, and what does this mean for your best friend?

In this article, we will dive deep into the world of dog skin issues, uncovering not only the warning signs and possible causes of pyoderma in dogs but also the steps you can take to offer some much-needed relief from the itch and irritation.

Let’s get started…

What is Pyoderma?

Pyoderma is a term used to refer to a bacterial skin infection, with the word literally translating to “pus (pyo) in the skin (derma).” It is one of the most common dog skin conditions. Luckily, it is also often easy to treat once it has been diagnosed. Most dogs recover fully with the proper medication.

The condition is classified into one of three types based on its location in or on the skin. They include:

Surface Pyoderma: infections on top of the skin’s surface
Superficial Pyoderma: infections in the outermost layer of the skin, including in the hair follicles (which may be referred to as superficial bacterial folliculitis)
Deep Pyoderma: infections in the deeper layers of the skin

The condition itself isn’t always visible, making it sometimes difficult to spot. This is why it is so important for dog parents to familiarize themselves with the warning signs of skin irritation and seek veterinary help. They can do the tests necessary to look beyond what is visible to the naked eye.

What Causes Pyoderma in Dogs?

Every healthy dog has bacteria on the surface of their skin. When a dog’s skin becomes irritated for any reason, they respond by scratching at the spot. This creates openings in the layers of the skin where the bacteria can move deeper, creating the perfect environment for them to grow and thrive.

There are several potential triggers for the initial irritation, including:

Environmental or seasonal allergies
Food allergies
Flea allergy dermatitis
Chronic exposure to moisture (like skin folds)
Seborrhea
Impaired blood flow to the skin
Endocrine disorders (Hypothyroidism, Cushing’s disease)

It can also start when the skin is damaged due to an injury. Even a minor injury could cause just enough of an opening into the skin’s layers to begin the cycle.

Is Dog Pyoderma Contagious to Humans?

As this is a bacterial infection, it isn’t a risk of transmission like an airborne virus would be. Some strains of the bacteria can occasionally lead to an infection in humans or other dogs. However, the risk is incredibly low unless you have a compromised immune system.

You can minimize the risk of transmission by focusing on keeping your home clean as your dog fights the infection. This includes regularly cleaning their food and water dishes as well as any bedding your dog sleeps on regularly.

If you have an open wound, keep it covered when spending time with your infected dog.

Common Warning Signs of Skin Irritation and Pyoderma

As we already mentioned, pyoderma isn’t always visible. It can be especially difficult to spot in the early stages. However, we never want to see our dogs suffer from something uncomfortable. The sooner you recognize a problem, the faster you can seek treatment to give them much-needed relief.

Some of the most common warning signs to watch out for include:

Itching
Redness
Swelling
Lesions that look like human pimples
Dry, flaky patches
Welts or blisters
Bald patches
Unpleasant odor
Blood or pus

If you notice any of these signs, contact your veterinarian. Not only will they be able to confirm if a bacterial infection is present, but they can also provide instant relief for any irritation and discomfort.

Are Some Dogs More Susceptible to Pyoderma?

While pyoderma doesn’t have a genetic component, breed-specific factors could increase the risk. Dogs with natural skin folds, like the English Bulldog and the Shar Pei, may experience skin irritation more frequently within the folds. The folds collect and trap moisture, creating the ideal environment for bacterial growth.

Female dogs who have had multiple litters of puppies may also be at risk. This is due to the fact that the mammary glands develop folds over time, much like the skin folds we already mentioned.

Young puppies are also at a higher risk due to their sensitive skin. There is also an increased risk for dogs with medical conditions that compromise the immune system. Additionally, senior dogs often experience increased skin sensitivity and lower immune system performance.

How is Pyoderma Treated?

Treating pyoderma in dogs requires treating the infection and addressing the underlying cause. If the cause of your dog’s skin issue isn’t resolved, the condition will return.

Your veterinarian will prescribe an oral antibiotic that your dog must take for approximately 3-4 weeks. Sometimes, a topical antibiotic like a medicated cream may be used. But, this only solves one piece of the bigger puzzle by treating the infection. Treating the infection repeatedly without addressing the underlying problem will often lead to more significant complications, such as antibiotic resistance.

Your veterinarian may ask many questions about your dog’s lifestyle and diet. This is to help establish a better understanding of the potential triggers, including opportunities to be exposed to environmental, seasonal, or food allergens. By managing the allergies, you can prevent the skin irritation that ultimately results in the formation of an infection.

If your dog’s pyoderma is the result of a medical condition, like hypothyroidism, you will need to work with your vet to address that problem directly.

Some cases of pyoderma can be traced back to lifestyle-related causes. For example, if you have a long-haired dog that isn’t properly groomed, it could lead to irritated skin and the ideal conditions for the bacteria to thrive. After treating the infection, proper grooming will be required to avoid a recurrence.

Photo credit: KPhrom / Shutterstock.com

What Happens if Pyoderma is Left Untreated?

As with any infection, pyoderma should be addressed by a veterinarian as soon as possible. While you may find suggestions for managing the discomfort at home, the infection must be treated with an antibiotic for your dog to recover fully. Failure to take this step could lead to the infection getting into the blood and spreading, causing a possibly life-threatening systemic infection.

Not only is untreated pyoderma a severe risk to your dog’s health and well-being, but it will also be excruciating for your dog. The condition starts with an uncomfortable skin irritation. However, as it progresses, this discomfort will become exponentially worse.

How Can I Prevent Pyoderma?

The best scenario for both your dog and your bank account is to prevent an infection from ever starting – avoiding both the discomfort for your best friend and the significant costs that can come from veterinary care to treat it. There is no guaranteed way to prevent pyoderma. But here are a few steps you can take to reduce your dog’s risk:

Maintain a Regular Grooming Schedule

One of the most preventable causes of pyoderma is a lack of appropriate grooming. As a dog’s coat becomes tangled and matted, it traps moisture and grime beneath its surface. This irritates the skin, starting the cycle, which often leads to pyoderma. Luckily, this cause is 100% avoidable.

The first step is to ensure that you fully understand your dog's grooming needs. If you’re a first-time dog owner or this is your first time with your dog’s breed specifically, you may benefit from having a conversation with a groomer. They have the experience and knowledge necessary to recommend how to best care for your dog’s coat.

Once you understand your dog’s grooming needs, you can purchase the necessary gear or make appointments with a local groomer to meet your dog’s needs.

Flea and Tick Prevention

Another preventable cause of pyoderma is flea allergy dermatitis. This refers to an allergic response to the saliva of fleas when they bite. Therefore, the easiest and most effective solution is to commit to using a trusted flea and tick prevention product.

Many options are available, depending on your preference, including both oral and topical options. When selecting the best flea and tick prevention for your dog, consider breed, weight, and age recommendations. For example, many products are safe for a full-grown adult dog but unsafe for a young puppy.

If you’re unsure about the best flea and tick preventatives for your dog, contact your veterinarian. They will discuss the various options and help you determine which suits your lifestyle best.

Identify and Avoid Triggers Where Possible

Does your dog suffer from seasonal or environmental allergies? Do they have food allergies or intolerances? Understanding the triggers that cause skin irritation can prevent this before it begins.

Avoiding the trigger can be challenging for dogs with environmental or seasonal allergies. After all, who can keep their dog away from grass or pollen? Right? Instead, your veterinarian may be able to prescribe a medication to reduce the symptoms and minimize discomfort. For those with food allergies, a change in diet will allow you to eliminate the trigger by being careful with the food and treat choices provided.

Extending this further, some dogs are susceptible to parasites like fleas and ticks. If this is the case, avoiding higher-risk areas or time periods can help to reduce the risk of an infestation.

Keep Up with Regular Veterinary Check-Ups

There are several potential medical explanations for the development of pyoderma in dogs, such as hypothyroidism and Cushing’s disease. The best opportunity to reduce the risk of skin irritation is to identify and manage these conditions as soon as possible. Ensuring your dog sees the vet annually for their routine check-up gives them a better chance of catching a problem before it develops into a more significant issue.

Conduct Weekly Body Scans

In addition to a skilled veterinarian monitoring your dog’s health daily, you can also prioritize their health and well-being. Once a week, take a moment to examine your dog carefully for any signs of skin issues or irritation. This can often be done while petting or cuddling on the couch.

Simply run your hand over your dog’s body, checking for the development of lumps or bumps. If your dog has a longer coat, separate the fur to check their skin. Is it red? Dry? Flaking? Irritated? These are all signs of a bigger problem and warrant a call to your veterinarian. Explain your observations and concerns. This will provide them with a better understanding of your dog’s health between exams.

Use a Medicated Shampoo

Oral antibiotics may not be the most effective approach for dogs suffering from surface pyoderma. Instead, your veterinarian may recommend a topical treatment, like a medicated shampoo. These products work to address the bacterial growth before the condition has a chance to migrate under the skin’s surface. Carefully read and follow the instructions on the packaging regarding how often the shampoo should be used and how long it should be left on the skin before rinsing it off. This will help boost the effectiveness of its use.

Final Thoughts – Pyoderma in Dogs

Pyoderma is the most common skin condition experienced by dogs. Luckily, treatment is highly effective, especially when the infection is caught early. To reduce your dog’s risk, focus on their overall skin care, including prioritizing grooming and annual veterinary appointments.

If you notice signs that your dog may be suffering from pyoderma, contact your veterinarian as soon as possible. Treatment will involve antibiotics for the infection as well as addressing the root cause. With proper care, your dog will be back to their happy, healthy self before long!

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Britt

Britt Kascjak is a proud pet mom, sharing her heart (and her home) with her “pack” which includes her husband John, their 2 dogs – Lucifer and Willow – and their 2 cats – Pippen and Jinx. She has been active in the animal rescue community for over 15 years, volunteering, fostering and advocating for organizations across Canada and the US. In her free time, she enjoys traveling around the country camping, hiking, and canoeing with her pets.

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Enjoying a leisurely walk or adventurous hike with your dog is an incredible way to spend quality time together and strengthen your bond. However, a dog that pulls and lacks leash manners can quickly turn this fun experience upside down.While collars have long been the standard for walking, many veterinarians and trainers are now sharing the benefits of using a harness. They are generally safer and more comfortable for dogs of all ages.However, not every dog will instantly take to wearing a harness the first time they are introduced.In this guide, I will walk you through the steps of introducing a harness to your dog, building positive associations, and setting both you and your dog up for long-term success. From choosing the right harness to mastering the process of putting it on, you’ll be prepared to hit the pavement with your canine companion in style and comfort.What Are the Benefits of Using a Harness?Let's take a step back before I walk you through training your dog to wear a harness. Why should you consider using a harness for your dog? What benefits does it offer over a typical collar?The most significant difference between a collar and a harness, and the reason why most veterinarians and dog trainers recommend harnesses, is the risk of injury. When your dog wears a collar, all pressure is put directly on their throat. If your dog pulls or tries to take off after a temptation (like a squirrel or to play with another dog), the pressure on their throat can cause significant damage. In the most severe cases, the impact of the collar on your dog’s throat can cause a life-threatening injury.Harnesses, on the other hand (or the other paw), disperse the pressure across your dog’s chest. Not only is this a more extensive area, but it’s better suited for handling this pressure without injuries (assuming the harness is properly fit to your dog).Depending on the activities you plan to enjoy with your dog, a harness could introduce additional features. This could include harnesses and support to assist a senior dog with mobility, a cooling harness for hot summer days, a harness with built-in backpacks to carry their gear while hiking, seatbelt attachments for safe car travel, and more. What Age Should Your Dog Start Wearing a Harness?Eight weeks old is the earliest age you should put a harness onto a young puppy. At this age, puppies are generally very open to new skills and experiences, making it the perfect time to introduce something new. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t train your dog to wear a harness if you are considering making this change later in life. Many adults and even senior dogs learn to wear and love their harnesses with a bit of time and a little patience.How Long Does It Take a Dog to Get Used to a Harness? The time it will take for your dog to get used to a harness will vary from dog to dog. Some pups will accept the harness quickly, comfortably wearing it and running around confidently right away. However, this isn’t true for every dog.If your dog is older and set in their ways or nervous when faced with new experiences, working through these steps may take a lot longer. Be patient and focus on creating a positive association with the harness by introducing praise and rewards. Allow your dog to set the pace, moving from one step to the next only when they are ready. This is the best way to set them up for long-term success (the ultimate goal).How to Train Your Dog to Wear a Harness: Step-By-StepBefore you start training, take a moment to consider what motivates your dog. While most dogs can be motivated with high-value treats, you may find your dog is better inspired to try something new with the offer of playtime with a favorite toy or even with simple praise and attention from you, their person. Knowing this is the secret to training success!Step One – Choosing a HarnessThe first thing to consider is the style of harness best suited for your dog. There are several factors to consider when shopping for the right harness. This includes your dog’s size, the weight of the harness, the adjustability, the material, how easy it is to clean, and any special features the harness may offer.You may even need to consider different harnesses for different situations. For example, you may prefer a classic nylon harness for walks around the block with your pup. However, if you are planning a challenging hike, your dog may be better served by a stronger and more supportive adventure harness with a handle to assist with any obstacles along the way.Finding the correct harness is essential, as your training will focus on making that specific harness a positive trigger for your dog. For the training process to be effective, this harness should be used.Step Two – Introduce the HarnessIn the early stages of training, you’re not going to put the harness on your dog. Instead, you want to give them a chance to check it out and realize it’s not something to be afraid of.To begin, place the harness on the ground in the comfort of your own home. Allow your dog to sniff at it and look it over. As they interact with the harness, occasionally offer praise or a treat. This will start to introduce the idea that the harness brings good things.When you see that they give the harness no more interest than a rug or your shoes (assuming they don’t chew your shoes), you can move on to the next step.

K9 Fergie Disappears Near Loch Ness...

Nope, not taken by the famed lake's monster, just ignoring her handler's commands.

The Latest Pet Industry Trends from Global Pet Expo 2024

On March 20-22, 2024, pet industry professionals from across the globe gathered at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, for the Global Pet Expo. Presented by the American Pet Products Association (APPA) and the Pet Industry Distributors Association (PIDA), the exhibit floor showcased 1,100+ companies, including 300 first-time exhibitors. This included 1,000+ product launches, the latest pet industry news, a packed New Products Showcase, and more! But what did we discover while attending the show? Here are some of the hottest trends in the industry, as seen at this year’s show: Mind the BudgetIn the last decade, we have seen a growing interest in spoiling our pets regardless of the cost. However, following the events of 2020, many pet parents are feeling the pinch that is society’s current financial state. So, how do we reconcile the two? Many brands came into this year’s show with a focus on providing high-quality pet care with a budget-friendly mindset. This included two distinct approaches. Some companies focused on finding ways to keep the price point low. This included changes to production, simplified designs, and sourcing quality supplies at a fraction of the cost. They then transferred these savings directly to the consumer, allowing you to spoil your pets without breaking the bank. The other trend we saw was to create premium products that, while requiring an upfront investment, are designed to last for years to come. By not having to replace them repeatedly, you will save money over the product's lifespan. Overall, we were excited to see so many ways pet parents can improve their pet’s quality of life, even when finances are tight. Sustainability for the Future A growing understanding of the impact of our pets on the environment has put pressure on the pet industry to find ways to prioritize sustainability. Some experts say that caring for a medium-sized dog can have a similar carbon footprint to driving a large SUV. How do we address this without giving up our pets? We saw several brands rising to the challenge! There was a growing number of companies creating adorable and functional toys from recycled materials. Snugarooz had a wide assortment of brightly colored, crinkly, and squeaky plush toys made from recycled water bottles. WestPaw added more products to their popular Seaflex line of 100% recyclable toys made with recycled ocean-bound plastic. We also saw a focus on sustainability in pet food and treats. One company that really stood out was Arch Pet Food. The company previously demonstrated their commitment to eco-friendly pet ownership by introducing alternative proteins in their food and treats. One product that we found very impressive was the Dehydrated Copi treats, made from an invasive species in our waterways. Other shifts towards sustainability included changes in packaging to reduce unnecessary plastics, the use of hemp-based bedding for small animals, and more sustainable decisions being made during production.

Is a Ferret the Right Pet For Me?

Ferrets are well-known for their playful personalities and mischievous antics – and who can resist their adorable faces? As a result, they have become an increasingly popular choice for pets. However, before you invite one of these energetic critters into your home, it’s essential to understand their unique needs! In this guide, I’ll explore the pros and cons of ferret ownership, including questions to ask yourself to determine if a ferret is the right pet for you. Plus, if you’re ready to move forward with your new pet, we’ll help you identify what to look for in a healthy ferret and the steps to take to prepare your home for your new furry friend’s arrival. Ferret Basics: Things You Should Know Before Getting a Ferret Before researching where to find your new friend, let’s step back and start with the basics. What will your new ferret require for a happy, healthy life? Are you prepared to meet those needs? Determining this should be the first step when considering any new pet, regardless of the pet you plan to adopt. Yes, even dogs and cats! Temperament Ferrets are social animals and require regular interaction with others. They are happiest when living in pairs or small groups for constant companionship. This also means they aren’t the type of pet that can be left to fend for themselves without regular quality time with their person or people. They can be startled easily and have sharp teeth that hurt considerably if they bite. This most commonly happens if they are surprised, startled, or handled incorrectly. For this reason, they may not be the best fit for homes with young children unless careful boundaries are established. Daily RoutineExperts recommend that ferrets be given at least 4 hours of active time outside their cage or habitat daily, six to eight hours when they are young. Failing to meet those needs can lead to boredom and a wide range of behavioral problems. When you start handling and playing with your ferret, you may notice they are naturally mouthy. To train your new ferret to play safely with people, avoid using your hands as a “toy.” Instead, use fun and ferret-safe toys like rubber balls, ropes, chew toys, or interactive cat toys. Avoid anything too small that they could swallow, as it could cause a life-threatening obstruction. Grooming While these adorable creatures are naturally clean, they have a distinct odor often described as musky. This scent is even stronger in unneutered ferrets. You can bathe your ferret regularly, but the smell will never disappear entirely. That being said, avoid the temptation to over-bathe your ferret. They should be bathed at most once or twice a month. Bathing them too often will strip their skin and coat of the protective natural oils, causing skin irritation or even making the smell worse! Diet Ferrets are carnivores requiring a high-protein, low-fiber, meat-based diet. This can be accomplished by feeding a commercially prepared ferret food or preparing a homemade diet. The amount they need to eat and the nutrients required to ensure their diet is balanced correctly will depend on their age, weight, lifestyle, and any underlying health concerns. Some foods that can be included in their meals include eggs, high-protein baby foods, kitten foods, turkey necks, game birds, or minced meat. Health and Veterinary CareLike other traditional companion animals, ferrets require regular veterinary check-ups to ensure no cause for concern. Finding a vet may be a little more challenging as there are fewer vets experienced with ferret care. These little critters are prone to several health problems like lymphoma, adrenal gland disease, respiratory problems, ear mites, and intestinal parasites. Staying on top of their vet care will help prevent issues and identify problems early when they are easier to address.Ideal Environment When creating the ideal habitat for your ferret, one of the biggest things to consider is the available space in your home. A ferret’s cage should be at least 18 inches by 18 inches by 30 inches, with a minimum of two levels and stairs or ramps to move between them. This means you must find space in your home for a cage of this size. This cage should include many enrichment opportunities, like toys, tubes, hammocks, and hiding spaces. In addition to setting up a cage with all the necessities, they will also need time to play and explore outside their cage. This means you will need to have a ferret-proofed area of the home where they can move about safely. They are masters of climbing and slipping through small spaces, which can make the process of ferret-proofing or keeping them contained in one area of the home challenging. Questions to Ask Yourself Before Adopting a Ferret Do you have enough space to accommodate your ferret’s habitat and the ability to ferret-proof an area of your home (they are escape artists)? Are you prepared for the high cost of veterinary care if your ferret encounters a medical emergency or any of the common health conditions listed above?Can you dedicate at least 4 hours per day to playtime and social interaction? Are ferrets legal to keep as pets in my area? Have you found a vet near you with experience in ferret care?Will you be comfortable with the strong, musky ferret odor (Yes, it will be in your home)?Do you have a young child in the home? If so, you may be better served by adopting a pet your child can handle and interact with safely.

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