Zits, pimples, and spots — oh my! We humans may be all too familiar with the concept of acne, but what about our four-legged friends — can dogs get pimples? Are they prone to the occasional breakout, too? 

Read on to find out how dog acne plagues even man’s best friend from time to time. 

Dog acne, also known as canine acne, is a common skin condition that causes small red bumps, or pimples, on a dog’s face, particularly around the mouth, lips, and chin. This condition, which can also be classified as a type of pyoderma, is more common in younger dogs and certain breeds - but can affect dogs of any age. 

There are two main types of canine acne, more officially referred to as ‘muzzle folliculitis’ and ‘muzzle furunculosis’:

Canine acne can cause multiple comedones (blackheads) on the chin and lips, where short, coarse hairs grow. The area can also be swollen, inflamed, crusty or bleeding - and is ultimately usually itchy and painful for your pup.

All dogs can develop canine acne — but it’s most common for the short-coated breeds to be affected. What’s more, chronic acne is possible if the underlying causation is left unidentified.

Initial signs of canine acne can be quite mild - breakouts are typically concentrated in the chin and lip areas. You might first start to notice this in your furry friend as a single pimple on the head, usually around the mouth. 

If your dog is affected, you may also find them scratching the area more frequently due to itchiness or pain. 

Some initial symptoms to keep an eye out for are:

Progressive or later signs can include:

Unfortunately, this is a complex condition with lots of different potential triggers - making it hard to nail down the exact cause. 

But understanding the most common potential causes can help in preventing and managing it effectively. 

Some of the most common causes of dog acne are:

Other contributing conditions are: 

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If you notice your dog’s acne appearing or worsening around your pet’s muzzle, it's important to monitor them for other reactions that might hint at an underlying cause. 

Pay attention to any specific triggers, like contact with certain materials, foods, or chemicals, and ensure that the acne is localized to the face and not spreading. Watch for additional symptoms that may indicate a more severe issue, such as changes in appetite, diarrhea, vomiting, or excessive scratching.

Veterinarians may conduct several diagnostic tests to identify the cause of canine acne and check for any secondary infections. 

Here’s a look at common diagnostic procedures your vet might perform:

So, how do we get rid of dog pimples? Luckily, treating canine acne tends to be quite simple - especially once any infections are diagnosed and the initial cause is determined.

On the hunt for a more natural remedy for canine acne? Try coconut oil.

Coconut oil can help improve and maintain your dog’s skin and coat — great, right? Start off mildly with 1/4 teaspoon for every ten pounds of your dog’s weight. Its antimicrobial properties can be beneficial against bacteria, and can contribute to healthier skin when applied topically or orally. 

As always, consult your vet before giving any treatments (natural or otherwise) to ensure that there’s no risk to your pet.

Keeping up with regular follow-up visits is key to managing your dog’s acne! Since this skin condition can have lots of causes, your vet may start with basic tests and treatments and adjust based on how well your dog responds. Expect to head back to the vet within a couple of weeks to check if oral meds and topicals are doing the trick — without any unwanted side effects.

Consistency is essential! Canine acne can easily come back once it appears, and without the right care, it can get worse. Regular use of vet-recommended products like medicated wipes, shampoos, or even a 2% benzoyl peroxide cream can help keep flare-ups at bay. If there’s a clear trigger — like plastic food bowls or an allergy — removing it can make a big difference. With the right management, mild cases can clear up in less than a month.

Relapse is pretty common with dog acne, especially if there’s no clear cause. For many dogs, ongoing or even lifelong management may be needed to keep their skin clear and happy.

Unplanned vet visits can be costly. Make sure you’re ready for the next health crisis with the right pet insurance — browse hundreds of policies from leading providers with Wag! Compare in seconds, and find the right plan for you and your pup today.