Antibiotics for Canine Skin Problems

Antibiotics provide an effective treatment for a dog's skin problems. According to Vet Info, a large proportion of canine skin problems are caused by staphylococci bacteria, but other bacteria can also affect a dog's skin. Always consult a vet before using antibiotics on a dog. To be safe and effective, use the right antibiotic at the correct dosage.

  1. Cephalexin

    • According to Discount Pet Medicines.com, Cephalexin is effective against a broad range of bacteria, and is commonly prescribed for a large variety of conditions, including skin, bone, wound, respiratory and bladder infections. The drug comes in liquid and capsule forms. Possible side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, rash, breathing difficulties, drooling and fever. Cephalexin is not safe for dogs with penicillin and cephalosporin allergies.

    Clindamycin

    • A narrow spectrum antibiotic, clindamycin comes in capsules, drops and topical solutions. Discount Pet Medicines.com states that the drug is prescribed for infections, bite wounds and abscesses. If a dog has kidney or liver problem, it should not consume clindamycin. The drug might cause side effects such as vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite.

    Enrofloxacin

    • According to Discount Pet Medicines.com, enrofloxacin penetrates tissue well and fights a broad range of bacteria. Also known under its trade name Baytril, the drug treats bacterial conditions that affect the respiratory, digestive and urinary systems. It also treats ear, skin and wound infections. The medication comes in ear drops, tablets, chewable tabs and injections. Side effects include diarrhea, vomiting, seizures, depression and nervousness.

    Lincomycin

    • Lincomycin, which is similar to clindamycin, fights a narrow range of bacteria. According to Pet Place, lincomycin treats bacterial infections, skin infections, wound infections, bone infections, pneumonia and dental infections. The drug, which comes in capsule, liquid, injectable and powder forms, may cause vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite.

    Chloramphenicol

    • A broad-spectrum antibiotic, chloramphenicol treats bacterial infections in dogs, including skin infections, wound infections and tick-transmitted diseases, according to Pet Place. Chloramphenicol comes in capsules, tablets and liquid. The drug might cause the suppression of blood-forming cells, vomiting, diarrhea and appetite loss.