Dog Acne Remedies

Canine acne or acne in dogs is a common phenomenon.



This condition usually starts around puberty when the dog is about five to eight months of age. Certain breeds like English bulldogs, Great Danes, Rottweilers, Doberman pinschers and adult boxers are more susceptible to dog acne. Acne on dogs is known to improve over a period of time but some dogs can develop chronic acne. Canine acne does not limit the dog in any way.



If left untreated it can trigger a secondary bacterial infection. Bacterial infections can cause itchy and irritable skin conditions.

Types and Symptoms of Canine Acne

The key symptoms associated with canine acne are the presence of multiple blackheads on the lips, chin and muzzle. The types of dog acne may vary from mild to chronic acne. Mild symptoms rarely require treatment while other types of acne require acne control and cure.



The formation of pustules or blackheads can also cause irritation. The dog may like to scratch his face in this case to reduce discomfort. Infected pustules may lead to pus formation and are also likely to ooze out from the pustules. The appearance of acne may be a trigger for other dog skin diseases such as ringworm, demodicosis and puppy strangles. Canine acne pustules look similar to ringworm lesions. Accurate diagnosis is the best way to render appropriate acne control and care.

Causes of Canine Acne

Dogs tend to accumulate dirt and grime on their face. This leads to accumulation of debris which blocks the hair follicles. Blocked hair follicles swell and cause tiny black pustules known as blackheads. Scabs, swelling and blackheads are the common forms of protrusions that affect the skin around the face.

Dog Acne Diagnosis, Home Treatments

It is easy to diagnose this skin condition given that acne on dogs manifests itself in the form of blackheads, pustules and swelling. A skin biopsy may also be conducted for better understanding of the acne condition. Skin biopsy may require sedation or anesthesia to extract the skin sample. The age of the dog, skin condition and breed are important factors that determine the severity of the acne condition. Dogs have sensitive skin and therefore it is not wise to test drugstore solutions without your vet's permission. Shampoos with less than 2.5% benzyl peroxide are known to benefit the acne condition. It is necessary to check with the veterinarian about the use of drugs and shampoos because different breeds require different care.