Canine Blackheads & Pimples

Just like humans, canines get acne. Most canine acne occurs on the face. The acne is not painful to dogs and does not hinder regular functions such as eating or breathing. However, if the acne becomes infected, it could become a more serious problem. Taking care of your dog̵7;s pimples and blackheads requires a proper diagnosis and the appropriate medication. Knowing and understanding what to look for, as well as different treatment options, can help alleviate your dog̵7;s acne.

  1. Physical Appearance and Age

    • Canine acne typically strikes dogs of a young age. Most cases occur in puppies at about eight months old. After dogs reach one year old, the acne tends to go away. Canine acne is most apparent on the facial area of the dog. Red bumps and blackheads form on the lips and chin of young dogs. Acne can appear elsewhere on the dog̵7;s body. However, body canine acne can mean that the dog has a bacterial infection. Canine acne can become infected. Once infected, the bumps and blackheads may ooze pus. Infected acne also itches. When acne becomes itchy, many dogs scratch or rub their faces on furniture to alleviate the itching.

    Causes

    • Canine acne occurs when hair follicles become blocked. Not a lot is known about whether or not genetics plays a role in the formation of canine acne. However, certain dog breeds are more susceptible, such as rottweilers and boxers. Hormones are also believed by some to play a role in the formation of canine acne.

    Diagnosis

    • Canine acne must be diagnosed by a veterinarian. Typically, a diagnosis is made by finding the red bumps and blackheads on the dog̵7;s face. Some veterinarians order skin biopsies for confirmation of the diagnosis. Some symptoms associated with canine acne are also associated with other diseases, such as bacterial dermatitis and demodicosis. Note any strange behavior or suspicious-looking lumps when you consult your veterinarian.

    Treatment

    • Veterinarians offer a few treatment methods for canine acne. While it is not curable, effective treatments are available. One treatment is to wash your dog̵7;s face with benzoyl peroxide twice a week. You must be gentle while washing the face. Use a soft cloth and avoid getting the peroxide in your dog̵7;s eyes. Another treatment is to use topical antibiotics or topical steroids. Topical antibiotics help reduce the risk of bacterial infection. Only veterinarian-approved medications should be used to treat the acne. Canine acne should never be popped. Popping pimples on your dog can lead to infection and scarring.