PYODERMA IN DOGS: SYMPTOMS, CAUSES, AND HOW TO TREAT THIS SKIN INFECTION
If you notice your dog has skin lesions, is scratching more than usual, or has a bad odor, they might be dealing with a condition called pyoderma, one of the most common skin diseases in canines. This condition, which can affect dogs of all ages and breeds, requires specialized veterinary attention to prevent major complications.
Most Common Types of Canine Pyoderma
Pyoderma is a bacterial skin infection that can appear in different forms. The most common types include:
- Superficial Pyoderma
- Deep Pyoderma
- Interdigital Pyoderma
- Mucocutaneous Pyoderma
Remember, each type can show different symptoms and affect various parts of the body, so an accurate diagnosis is crucial.
What Causes It?
The onset of this disease is often linked to an imbalance in the skin's natural defenses, caused by factors like allergies, hormonal disorders, immunosuppression, or skin wounds. When this happens, bacteria such as Staphylococcus or Streptococcus seize the opportunity to invade the skin, especially in moist areas, folds, or injured spots.
Symptoms to Watch Out For
Pyoderma signs can vary depending on the dog's overall health, breed, or age, but the most common symptoms include:
- Visible skin lesions: red, inflamed, or crusty areas, and even pus-filled ulcers
- Intense itching: dogs tend to scratch or bite excessively at the affected areas
- Bad odor: some infections emit an unpleasant smell due to bacteria and secretions
- Hair loss: especially in areas where the infection affects hair follicles
- Mucosal irritation: in cases of mucocutaneous pyoderma, lesions may also appear on lips, eyelids, or anus
Diagnosis and Treatment
To confirm a pyoderma diagnosis, the veterinarian will take a skin sample from the dog to examine under a microscope. In some cases, it will be necessary to send it to a lab to determine the most suitable antibiotic.
Treatment focuses on eliminating the bacterial infection and addressing any underlying cause, if present. Timely veterinary care will make a difference in preventing this condition from worsening.
2025-06-10T02:52:19Z
