Although many may think that the acne It is only produced on the skin of humans when they are in puberty, let me tell you that our pets can also be affected by acne.
Our dogs can suffer from this disease, which although it does not bother them or embarrass them, can be a little painful and can even cause certain infections. Acne in dogs, as in humans, frequently occurs in young people, as it is linked to hormonal changes and excessive production of skin fat or sebum.
In this article, you will learn how to identify the symptoms, causes, and most effective treatments for canine acne, as well as preventative measures that will help maintain healthy skin on your furry companion.
How to identify acne in dogs?
Canine acne can be difficult to identify in its early stages as it can resemble other skin conditions. However, it is important for pet owners to be aware of the symptoms. visible symptoms that may indicate the presence of acne in your dogs.
The most common way to recognize acne in your dog is by carefully examining the chin and lip area. This is the most common area where red spots, small bumps and blackheads appear, similar to the symptoms of acne in humans. In more severe cases, pus-filled pustules may also be observed.
Acne in dogs tends to appear mainly on the canine puberty, that is, between 5 and 8 months of age, although this may vary depending on the breed.
Causes of acne in dogs
Hormonal changes
The main factor that triggers acne in dogs, as in humans, is the hormonal changesThese changes usually occur during puberty and can affect the natural balance of your pet's skin.
During this phase, hormonal levels can increase sebum production in the dog's skin, leading to clogged hair follicles and the formation of blackheads or pimples. If left unchecked, this buildup can become inflamed and infected with bacteria, forming pustules with pus.
Although it is more common in young dogs, acne can also appear in adult dogs suffering from hormonal imbalances associated with other health conditions, such as Hypothyroidism or Cushing's syndrome.
Excess oil on the skin
Another major cause of acne in dogs is the overproduction of sebum, which is a natural oily substance that helps keep a dog's skin moisturized and protected. When there is excess sebum, pores become clogged and can create acne.
Some dog breeds, such as boxers, rottweilers and bulldogs, are more prone to developing these types of skin disorders due to their genetics, which naturally lead to oilier skin.
Poor hygiene
La poor hygiene It can also be a major cause of acne in dogs. Dogs that are not bathed or brushed regularly can accumulate dirt, food debris, and bacteria on their skin, which increases the likelihood of hair follicles becoming clogged.
This is particularly common in the chin and muzzle area, where food residue can remain longer if not properly cleaned after each meal.
Genetic reasons
Some breeds may be more prone to developing acne due to their genetic predispositionFor example, bulldogs, pugs, boxers and shar peis, which have skin folds, may be more likely to develop this condition due to the accumulation of dirt and moisture in these folds.
Even short-haired breeds, such as Dobermans and Rottweilers, are also more prone to acne due to their oilier skin type and the ease with which loose hair and dirt get trapped in their pores.
Other factors
In addition, acne in dogs can be exacerbated by external factors such as Stress or even the use of irritating chemicals, such as certain shampoos not specifically designed for dogs or collars made of materials that irritate the skin.
In more severe cases, allergies, both food and environmental, can increase sebum production and aggravate or trigger skin problems in dogs, including acne.
Diagnosing Acne in Dogs
If you suspect your dog may be suffering from acne, it is very important to take him to the veterinarian to confirm the diagnosis.
The veterinarian will perform a physical exam to rule out other skin conditions that may resemble acne, such as dermatitis, fungal infections and demodicosis (demodectic mange), which can also cause bumps and redness on the dog's skin.
In some cases, the veterinarian may take a skin sample by scraping or biopsy to confirm the diagnosis and ensure that there are no secondary bacterial or fungal infections.
Treatment of canine acne
Topical treatments
Acne in dogs, in most cases, can be treated with topical remedies, such as special gels or creams that contain antibacterial, anti-inflammatory or drying ingredients. These products help disinfect the skin, reduce inflammation and control sebum production.
One of the most common ingredients is the benzoyl peroxide, which is applied in small amounts to the affected areas. This compound helps to open the pores and eliminate bacteria trapped in the follicles.
Medicated shampoos are also popular for treating acne in dogs, especially those containing chlorhexidine o salicylic acid, which reduce inflammation and improve skin hygiene.
It is important to apply these products as directed by your veterinarian, making sure to rinse the shampoo thoroughly to avoid further irritation.
oral medications
In more severe cases, your veterinarian may consider prescribing oral antibiotics If a secondary bacterial infection is present, these medications help eliminate bacteria that could be exacerbating the problem and causing further discomfort to your dog.
In some cases, they may be prescribed corticosteroids to reduce severe inflammation, but due to their possible side effects, they should be used under the strict supervision of the veterinarian.
Home remedies and natural treatments
In addition to conventional treatments, some pet owners choose to try natural or home remedies to relieve acne symptoms in their dogs. One of the simplest remedies is the use of warm compresses, which help open pores and allow trapped sebum to exit more easily.
El aloe vera Aloe vera is also a common choice, as it has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. You can apply aloe vera gel to the affected areas to reduce irritation and help the skin heal more quickly. Make sure the dog does not lick the treated areas, as certain natural products can be toxic if ingested in large quantities.
Another home remedy is the use of diluted apple cider vinegar as a mild astringent. Vinegar helps balance the skin's pH and disinfect affected areas, but should be used with caution and always in small amounts diluted in water.
Preventing Acne in Dogs
Regular hygiene and grooming
One of the best ways to prevent acne in dogs is to maintain good hygiene. Make sure to bathe your dog with specific shampoos designed for their skin type and avoid using human products that can irritate their skin.
Pay special attention to areas that are more prone to acne, such as the chin and muzzle, keeping them clean and dry after each meal. If your dog has skin folds, clean them regularly to prevent the buildup of dirt and moisture that can promote acne formation.
Good nutrition
A balance diet is key to your dog's skin health. Make sure their diet includes all the essential nutrients, such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which help keep the skin healthy and hydrated.
If you suspect your dog's acne is related to food allergies, consult your veterinarian to adjust his diet and eliminate possible allergens.
avoid irritants
In addition to hormonal factors, contact with irritating chemicals or materials that constantly rub against the skin can also trigger acne in dogs. For example, certain shampoos not suitable for dogs, collars, or beds made of synthetic materials can cause skin irritations.
Always choose natural and gentle products for your dog's hygiene and care.
When to visit the vet
If you notice that your dog's acne persists or worsens despite home and topical treatments, it's important to consult your vet again. Some complications, such as bacterial infections, require treatment with antibiotics to prevent them from getting worse.
It is also important to pay attention to severe symptoms such as fever, painful abscesses or bleeding wounds, as these may indicate systemic infections or more serious underlying diseases that should be treated immediately.
Don't hesitate to contact your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your dog's skin health. With early intervention, most cases of canine acne can resolve without further complications.
Impact of diet on skin health
Nutrition plays a crucial role in the health of your dog's skin. A balanced diet, rich in nutrients, essential nutrients, such as proteins, vitamins and fatty acids, is essential to avoid dermatological problems.
El omega-3 and the omega-6 are essential fatty acids that help reduce inflammation and keep the skin moisturized, which can prevent acne from forming. Also, if your dog shows signs of food allergies, such as recurring irritations or acne breakouts, you should consult your veterinarian for adjust your diet and avoid problematic ingredients.
In some cases, hypoallergenic food or nutritional supplements may be recommended to improve your dog's skin health.
Acne in dogs, despite being a relatively common condition, is treatable and in many cases preventable. If you pay attention to your pet's hygiene and follow your veterinarian's recommendations, your dog can enjoy healthy skin free of discomfort. Always remember to consult a professional to obtain the proper diagnosis and the most effective treatments for your faithful companion.