Bacterial Infection of the Skin in Dogs
Written By hannah hollinger
Published: 04/28/2016Updated: 05/13/2021
Veterinary reviewed by Michele K.
Bacterial Infection of the Skin in Dogs - Signs, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, Recovery, Management, Cost
What is Bacterial Infection of the Skin?
Many species of bacteria normally reside on the skin of dogs without causing any signs. Infection develops when conditions create an environment where bacteria can proliferate. This could be a flea infestation, an allergic reaction, a wound, or an underlying disease that depletes the immune system. Many different types of bacteria may be involved, but the most common species associated with pyoderma in dogs is staphylococcus pseudointermedius. The name pyoderma comes from the Greek words for “pus” and “skin,” so this term refers to any bacterial skin infection that exudes pus. Dogs may have red itchy patches of pustules that seep blood and discharge when they break. Severe infections may develop into painful ulcerations and boils. Bacteria flourish in moist conditions, so many pyoderma infections are caused by another condition that adds oil and moisture to the skin. Signs are more often found in the skin folds, or around areas of broken irritated skin. One-time infections are often treatable with antibiotics, but some dogs may have recurrent symptoms due to an allergy or an endocrine imbalance like hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease. In this case, the underlying condition will also need to be treated. Recurrent infections can be more problematic, especially if they lead to the development of antibiotic resistant bacteria.
Dogs can develop an infection when normal bacteria in the skin proliferate excessively. Infected dogs can have areas of redness, rash-like pustules, and hair loss.
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Symptoms of Bacterial Infection of the Skin in Dogs
Signs can range from mild irritation to severe and painful infection. See your veterinarian if you notice any of the following signs.
  • Pimple-like pustules on the skin
  • Dry patches of flaking skin
  • Itching
  • Crusted skin
  • Infected hair follicles
  • Alopecia (hair loss)
  • Hair standing on end
  • Seeping of blood or pus
  • Swelling or ulcerated skin
  • Odor
Types
Veterinarians use several different terms to define types of pyoderma.
  • Simple – a one-time response
  • Complex – infections that are recurrent or associated with an underlying disease
  • Focal – infection developing in a specific area
  • Generalized – covering the entire body
  • Superficial – infection of the epidermis (outer layer of the skin) and hair follicles
  • Deep – more severe infection involving the dermis (deeper layer of the skin)
Causes of Bacterial Infection of the Skin in Dogs
Pyoderma can be associated with many different conditions and veterinarians often struggle to find the exact cause. The following conditions are often related.
  • Flea infection
  • Allergic reaction
  • Any chronic form of dermatitis
  • Fungal or yeast infection (Malassezia)
  • Wound
  • Broken skin from scratching
  • Poor grooming
  • Endocrine imbalance that reduces lymphocyte counts like Cushing’s disease (hyperadrenocorticism), and hypothyroidism
  • Hereditary (some dogs are more prone to developing infection)
Diagnosis of Bacterial Infection of the Skin in Dogs
The veterinarian will perform a complete physical examination. Signs of skin infection will suggest pyoderma. Blood and urine tests will help to determine the underlying cause. Cell cultures may be taken of the infected area and examined microscopically to determine what organisms are present. Malassezia fungal infections are commonly found concurrent with bacterial pyoderma. The veterinarian will also check for the presence other parasites. In some cases, the culture may be sent to a lab to analyze the bacteria’s resistance to antibiotics and determine the best treatment.
The veterinarian will need to know your dog’s medical history and current medications. If your dog is taking a steroid, or another medication that suppresses the immune system this is important since it will limit the effectiveness of an antibiotic. Any prior skin infections or treatment with antibiotics is also relevant.
Treatment of Bacterial Infection of the Skin in Dogs
Most dogs with pyoderma will be treated with an oral antibiotic as well as topical sprays and shampoos. Many different antibiotics may be prescribed. The veterinarian will choose the one that best fits your dog’s infection. Antibiotic treatment will last from 2 to 6 weeks. Your dog will need to continue taking the medication at least a week after the symptoms of infection have been resolved in order to ensure that bacteria don’t survive and develop resistance.
Your will need to bathe your dog with a medicated shampoo several times a week during treatment. Dogs with severe, deep, pyoderma may need to be shampooed daily. Your veterinarian may prescribe a shampoo containing benzoyl peroxide, chlorhexidine, or another antiseptic agent. A topical antibacterial ointment or spray will likely be prescribed also.
To avoid recurrence, treatment will also need to focus on the underlying cause. The veterinarian will prescribe medication to treat hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease. Different treatment could be needed depending on the cause of these conditions. If a food allergy is suspected, the veterinarian may recommend a diet change or suggest eliminating different foods to find the cause of the allergy. Treatment may also be needed for fungal infection, parasites, or fleas.
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Recovery of Bacterial Infection of the Skin in Dogs
Pyoderma is not a life-threatening problem, but it can cause your dog a lot of pain and discomfort. Fortunately, most infections are treatable, and it is likely your dog will make a full recovery. Chronic and recurrent infections without a known cause can pose more of a problem. Regular bathing and grooming can help, as well as washing your dog’s bedding frequently. Some dogs may need to follow a strict diet to avoid an allergic reaction. Others may need lifelong medication to treat an endocrine imbalance. If this is the case, frequent check-ups will be necessary so the veterinarian can monitor your dog’s condition and adjust the dosage.
Bacterial Infection of the Skin Average Cost
From 74 quotes ranging from $250 - $2,500
Average Cost
$350
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Bacterial Infection of the Skin Questions and Advice from Veterinary Professionals
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Pitbull
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Six Years
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48 found this helpful

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48 found this helpful

My pet has the following symptoms:
Hair Loss, Redness, Looks Like There'S Puss In It
I just need help on determining what it is
Aug. 2, 2020
Answered by Dr. Sara O. DVM
48 Recommendations
Hello, This looks like a very bad skin infection. Usually, these dogs need oral antibiotics to help clear this up. It would be best for your vet to look at this area and start your dog on medication to help him feel much better.
Aug. 2, 2020
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Lab mix
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10+
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12 found this helpful

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12 found this helpful

My pet has the following symptoms:
Scratching And Hair Loss
my dod was on steroids for itching been off for a year because it didn't help. Using anti bacterial and anti fungal shampoo....not helping what do i do now.....he is suffering and I dont know what next....been thru all the tests and the money....any advice I could use.
July 31, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
12 Recommendations
Thank you for your question. I'm sorry that your dog is having troubles. There are medications that can help with allergies if that is the problem, and apoquel is one that your veterinarian may be able to prescribe. Older Labrador retrievers are also a little prone to hypothyroidism, and that may be something that needs to be checked. Otherwise, without being able to see him, unfortunately I am not able to comment more on what might be done. A re check with your veterinarian would probably be a good idea. I hope that he feels better soon!
July 31, 2020
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Boxer
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dog-age-icon
Four Years
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2 found this helpful

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2 found this helpful

My pet has the following symptoms:
Hair Loss, Pimple Like Bumps With Puss
Hi, I’ve taken my dog to the vet because of the before mentioned problems, we’ve been prescribed antibiotics and steroids but nothing has helped. I’ve tried neosporin and benedryl but nothing is working. Please help
July 24, 2020
Answered by Dr. Sara O. DVM
2 Recommendations
Hello, So sorry to hear that your dog is having issues. The pustules usually occur as a secondary infection due to allergies. There are allergy medications that you can give you dogs such as Apoquel. Many times a medicated bath, allergy medication, and sometimes antibiotics will be needed to clear this infection. Unfortunately, this will continue to occur unless you decrease exposure to what your dog is allergic to. Your vet can test your dog for allergies so you know if it is something in his food or in his environment causing this. I hope your dog starts to feel better soon.
July 24, 2020
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Boxer
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Three Years
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10 found this helpful

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10 found this helpful

My pet has the following symptoms:
Hair Loss, Pimple-Like Puss Wounds
I have taken my dog to the vet and he was prescribed antibiotics and a steroid for the above mentioned problems. Nothing has helped... and our vet doesn’t know what it is. I have a photo I can send, but I’d really appreciate any help.
July 24, 2020
Answered by Dr. Sara O. DVM
10 Recommendations
Hello, Many times dogs develop pustules due to allergies. Your dog may be allergic to his food or to something in his environment. You can try a sensitive skin food or a limited ingredient dog food to help with his skin. YOu vet may also be able to test your dog for allergies so you know what he is allergic to and can eleminate them from his diet. Allergies can be very frustrating to deal with. Good Luck.
July 24, 2020
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Golden Retriever
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2 Years
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6 found this helpful

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6 found this helpful

My pet has the following symptoms:
Dirty Ear, Reoccurring Left Ear Infection
We’ve treated a left ear infection multiple times and it consistently returns after a couple of months.
July 13, 2020
Answered by Dr. Sara O. DVM
6 Recommendations
Hello, So sorry to hear about your dog. Ear infections can sometimes be very hard to clear up. Once it is cleared, it may be best to use ear cleaner every few days to help prevent more infections. Your vet can even culture what is growing in your dog's ear to figure out what antibiotic is best to treat the infection. I hope your dogs ears start to improve soon. I know these can be very frustrating to clear up.
July 13, 2020
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Wirehaired Vizsla
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Izzy
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5 Years
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0 found this helpful

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0 found this helpful

My pet has the following symptoms:
Redness
Bleeding
Blackened Skin
Weaping Soars
I noticed that Izzy wasn't quite herself and had started hiding her tail weirdly and licking it a lot. Checked it out and there was a soar patch so we cleaned it but overnight it got a lot worse. Got her to the vets the following morning and the vet said it was cellulitis, a bacterial infection in her tail probably caused by a very small cut that had got bacteria in it. She's now on antibiotics, pain relief and wash for her tail twice a day, She has also got a cone to stop the licking. Its not bleeding like it was, that seems to have calmed right down it is just darkening and still weapy in areas. I am just concerned as the skin is going black in some areas and I don't know if it's starting the healing process or if it's worsening.If it worsens they said there's a good chance she will have to have her tail amputated. So I really want to know what signs I need to look out for to tell if it is getting worse and if the darkened skin is a bad sign?
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Shorkie Tzu
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Teddy
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3 Years
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0 found this helpful

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My pet has the following symptoms:
Scabby Bleeding Pussy Painful
My Shortie Teddy had two spot on between his shoulders scabby dry patches . Took him to the vet they treated him went away week later two more spots came but these were weepy and red and flaky. We asked for a refill thinking it was the same issue but 8 more came and the meds didn't work any more . now he has 10 spots big and small of these patches that now bleed and have puss. We have given him baths 2 twice a week and now are changing his food. Currently waiting for the culture to come back for the results and he has to wear PJs now to protect form licking... Has anything like this happen to anyone and Can any Dr. on here advise the best shampoo or foods to help??
Bacterial Infection of the Skin Average Cost
From 74 quotes ranging from $250 - $2,500
Average Cost
$350
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