Canine pyoderma is a condition in which the dog’s skin experiences pus-filled sores, redness, and irritation from bacterial infections. The term itself, pyoderma, means “pus in the skin.” While the term may appear scary, it’s actually treatable and preventable.

But before we talk about that, let’s learn more about pyoderma in dogs.

What Causes Pyoderma in Dogs?

The main cause of canine pyoderma is bacteria, specifically Staphylococcus pseudintermedius, in most cases. However, the bacterial infection can also come as a secondary infection from other conditions such as skin injuries, allergies, or inflammation. 

What Are the Types of Pyoderma in Dogs?

Pyoderma in dogs can be classified into three types: surface, superficial, and deep pyoderma.

Surface Pyoderma

This type is considered the mildest form of the skin infection, in which the bacteria have only affected the topmost layer of skin, or the epidermis. One example is intertrigo, an infection on the dog’s skin folds, common in Bulldogs. 

The common triggers include: 

• Moisture trapped in skin folds. Trapped moisture in the skin folds can create suitable areas for bacteria and fungi to grow. 

• Chronic licking or chewing. Dogs that lick or chew themselves constantly can break the outer layer of the skin, resulting in bacterial infections.

• Minor skin trauma or irritation. Small cuts or abrasions can also damage the barrier of the skin, letting bacteria come and invade. 

• Allergies. Allergic reactions can inflame and irritate the skin, resulting in constant itching and scratching. 

Surface pyoderma in dogs can be seen as symptoms such as:

• Red, moist patches. Hot spots can appear suddenly and spread rapidly. They’re also painful and sensitive when touched. 

• Mild crusting. Crusting can appear on the areas affected by the skin infection. 

• Inflammation of skin folds. The skin folds can appear swollen and inflamed, which is a common sign of intertrigo. 

Superficial Pyoderma

Superficial pyoderma goes a bit deeper, involving deeper parts of the epidermis and hair follicles. One notable example is impetigo, also known as pyoderma in puppies. 

It’s considered the most common form of pyoderma, and can be triggered by a variety of factors such as: 

• Atopic dermatitis. Allergies to pollen, dust mites, or molds can inflame the skin, disrupt its barrier, and allow bacteria to invade.

• Flea saliva allergy. Flea saliva triggers allergic reactions in sensitive dogs, resulting in severe skin irritation and inflammation. 

• Food allergies. Dogs with food allergies to certain proteins or ingredients can present skin rashes and inflammation. 

• Hormonal disorders. Conditions such as hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease can weaken the body’s defenses, making dogs more susceptible to pyoderma. 

Notable symptoms of superficial pyoderma in dogs include: 

• Pustules. Pustules look like whiteheads or pimples scattered all across the dog’s skin, which are often on the belly.

• Epidermal collarettes. These are circular patches of hair loss and scaling that are formed when pustules rupture. 

• Foul odor. An unpleasant odor may stem from the infected areas.  

This type can manifest as signs such as redness, circular crusts, bumps, hair loss, and 

Deep Pyoderma

Deep pyoderma in dogs is the most severe form of the disease, which is when the infection has extended deep in the skin’s layers and hair follicles. 

This type is generally caused by:

• Underlying health conditions. Similar to other types, allergies, hormonal imbalances, and other health conditions can trigger deep pyoderma in dogs.  

• Poor immune function. Poor immune function will result in recurrent and untreated infections. 

• Severe skin trauma. Severe skin injuries, such as deep cuts and wounds, can also increase the risk of deep pyoderma. 

• Untreated or chronic superficial pyoderma. If superficial pyoderma is not treated, it can progress to deep pyoderma. 

The most noticeable symptoms of deep pyoderma include: 

• Exudation. This is the discharge of pus, blood, or a mixture of both. It can often ooze from open sores. 

• Thick scabs or crusts on lesions. As ulcers drain, thick, dark scabs form, often concealing deeper infection.

• Draining tracts. These are abnormal pathways that continuously ooze the discharge, a result of severe infection. 

What Dog Breeds Get Pyoderma?

Certain dog breeds have skin folds that can easily trap moisture and debris, increasing the risk of surface pyoderma. These include breeds such as Basset Hounds, Bulldogs, Pugs, and Shar-Peis.