Rash on the Groin of an American Bulldog

American bulldogs may have a genetic predisposition to developing skin rashes. These are primarily due to allergies, which may cause a rash and itching. If your American bulldog has a rash on his groin, or anywhere on his body, consult your veterinarian. This will ensure a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

  1. Identification

    • A rash is a skin eruption or the breaking out of pustules on the skin. A rash may develop anywhere on a dog's body, however, common areas of outbreak in an American bulldog are the feet and the groin area. A rash may itch and often results in the dog scratching excessively.

    Atopic Dermatitis

    • American bulldogs who suffer from skin allergies may develop frequent rashes on the groin. A skin allergy is the result of the dog's immune system reacting to foreign substances. Atopic dermatitis is caused by skin allergies in dogs. This condition often appears within the first two years of the dog's life and may cause redness of the skin, a skin rash and itching. The most common causes of skin allergies may be caused by mites, pollens, molds and fleas. Food allergies may also cause rashes in dogs, although it is relatively uncommon.

    Bacterial Infections

    • A bacterial infection can cause a dog to be very uncomfortable. A bacterial infection in the groin area may manifest itself in a red rash that has pustules. Scratching may break the skin and only further damage it and encourage infection. Most veterinarians treat bacterial infections on the groin with antibiotics and medicated shampoos. Corticosteroids are generally not used with these types of infections, due to the fact that corticosteroids often reduce the dog's ability to fight infection.

    Medication

    • There are medications that may help to relieve the itching and discomfort of a rash on the groin of an American bulldog. For itching related to skin allergies, veterinarians may prescribe antihistamines for itching in an oral solution or topical cream. Corticosteroids may be prescribed in the treatment of rashes in dogs that are not caused by bacterial infections. These medications may help with the inflammation associated with skin allergies. Rashes that are caused by bacterial infections may need to be treated with antibiotics.

    Considerations

    • If your American bulldog exhibits symptoms of a rash on the groin, itching and excessive licking, consult your veterinarian. The vet will examine the rash and perhaps perform a skin scraping or skin allergy test in order to determine the cause of the rash. Determining the underlying cause of the rash will determine the medication your veterinarian will prescribe in order for your dog to be healthy and rash-free.