Does Your Dog Have Acne? Here’s What to Do

While acne is more commonly discussed in humans and cats than dogs, it is a recognized condition in our canine companions. Those affected are usually young and short-furred, and signs are seen around the mouth and chin. As acne does cause some discomfort and can be associated with infections, it is essential to diagnose and treat the condition quickly. Your vet will also want to rule out conditions that can look like canine acne, such as mites or fungal infections.

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What is dog acne?

Dog acne is a skin disease affecting the muzzle area that is more common in younger 'teenage' dogs, those under 12 months old. Owners will notice lesions like pimples, skin redness, fur loss, and potentially some mild swelling.

How do I know it is acne?

A wide range of dog skin conditions can mimic acne. Importantly, acne in dogs will be confined to the muzzle region. It is characterized as inflammation; pimples and red bumps can be seen. Affected dogs may experience folliculitis (hair follicle inflammation) and furunculosis (a deep skin infection).

Compared to cats, facial acne in dogs is lesser known but does not occur less frequently. Dogs with short fur are usually affected, and some breeds most prone to dog acne include Bull Terriers, Pugs, Frenchies, Boxers, Rottweilers, and Bulldogs.

Causes of dog acne

It is widely believed that trauma causes micro-injuries, leading to inflammation and acne. This 'trauma' is not a car crash or fall from a height but rather the skin being rubbed against repeatedly. Disrupting the fur and breaking it off can lead to inflammation, as the contents of the hair follicle are not recognized by the immune system when they break free. Bacteria can enter the broken skin, leading to secondary infections.

Itchy dogs often rub at their own skin, particularly if they have parasites, primary skin infections, or allergies. Other causes of trauma can include rough play with other dogs and rubbing against furniture or carpet.

It is clear that there are genetic factors, too, given that this skin issue is seen in certain breeds more than others.

Atopic dermatitis and allergies are commonly linked with canine acne. Dogs generally have other signs when food allergies are at play, including chronic loose stool, gas, and itchy paws. For those with environmental allergies, symptoms may flare after contact with allergens such as grass or pollen. Those with environmental allergies may have more signs, such as very itchy skin, runny eyes and nose, and frequent sneezing.

Symptoms of dog acne

As mentioned earlier, the symptoms are not specific to this condition and are regularly confused with other dog skin problems. When acne is at play, skin lesions are seen around the lips and chin alone.

Your vet is best placed to assess any facial lesions to determine if acne is likely. They will look for pimple-like bumps on your dog and should check the skin to ensure no inflammation elsewhere.

Pictures and descriptions

Above is a dog with a chronic skin infection. The skin is quite dry and flakey and the cheeks and forehead are affected, not just the muzzle.

Above is a dog that has severe Demodex mites (mange). Again, note how much more than just the muzzle is affected. There is severe lichenification (skin thickening) and discoloration.

How to treat dog acne

As with other skin conditions, treating the signs as soon as they appear is beneficial. This allows for the best chance of treatment success before infection spreads or becomes more deep-seated.

Home remedies

Along with any veterinary intervention, there are certain things you can try from home. It is beneficial to use a medicated wash, such as diluted Chlorhexidine. Acne solutions like topical Benzoyl Peroxide are also frequently used at home.

You'll want to prevent the dog from rubbing their face with their paws or along the ground, which can mean distraction techniques and using a buster collar. Similarly, owners must not pop pimples. As tempting as this can be, it will not speed healing.

Steer clear of products marketed as 'canine acne remedies' that do not list active ingredients. Many unscrupulous businesses will tout ointments and creams that have no proven benefit. Similarly, never be tempted to use products marketed for humans, as they are unsuitable and could be dangerous.

Where allergies are suspected, it is sensible to address this as appropriate. This may mean the use of a hydrolyzed diet or the avoidance of allergens such as dust mites or grasses.

When treating dog pimples, many owners find it helps to clean slobber using doggy wet wipes and dry the muzzle with cotton balls as needed. Stainless steel or ceramic bowls are easiest to keep clean, and they should be regularly washed to avoid the buildup of food residue and bacteria.

Veterinary treatments

If you suspect your dog has canine acne, schedule a check-up with their veterinarian. They can rule in or out the diagnosis and prescribe prescription acne treatments.

Your vet may prescribe skin medications, including antibiotics, topicals, and anti-inflammatories. Canine acne treatment may continue for several weeks or even a couple of months.

As this condition typically affects puppies under one year of age, it is just one more reason why insuring your dog as soon as you bring them home is a good idea.

Telehealth services for dog acne

While seeing your vet in person is best, telehealth services can help. The vet can assess photos or a video of your dog to guide you on whether they feel canine acne is the most likely diagnosis. They can also discuss the potential causes of your dog's acne and talk you through the most effective home remedies to try.

Some online services can issue prescription medicine, depending on your state's regulations.

Preventing dog acne

While not the easiest condition to prevent, there are a number of things that may help in certain situations.

1. Dog skin care and maintenance. Good canine skin care and regular grooming are cornerstones of management, as they remove dead skin cells, old food, and surface yeast and bacteria. Stick to dog-specific shampoos and doggy wet wipes. For good pimple care in long-furred dogs, keep their fur short. This reduces humidity, improves ventilation, and makes cleaning much more easily.
2. Dietary considerations. A fatty acid supplement such as salmon oil can support a robust skin barrier and may reduce the entrance of allergens in some atopic individuals. Much research suggests that probiotics are worth trialing and that they can modulate the immune response and reduce inflammation, improving overall dog skin health.

Though canine acne can be an unsightly and uncomfortable skin condition for your dog, it can be treated and should fully resolve after a month or two. For those with underlying issues, such as atopic skin disease, they will require ongoing management. As well as some things you can do from home, your vet can confirm the diagnosis of acne and prescribe the correct medication for your pup. Good hygiene and allergen avoidance help ensure any canine acne stays away.