Canine pyoderma is a bacterial skin infection, most often caused by Staphylococcus pseudintermedius. It is usually secondary to an underlying problem such as allergy, parasites, or hormonal disease that disrupts the skin barrier. Signs include redness, pustules, crusting, hair loss, and itching. Rising methicillin resistance has made some infections harder to treat and increased reliance on culture-guided therapy.
Pyoderma is a very common bacterial skin infection in dogs, usually caused by Staphylococcus pseudintermedius and secondary to another skin problem.
Underlying allergies, parasites, hormonal disease, or moisture allow normally harmless skin bacteria to overgrow and infect the skin. Resistant strains are increasingly common.
Signs include red bumps, pustules, circular crusty lesions, hair loss, scaling, and itching. Deep infections cause swelling, pain, and draining tracts.
Cytology of skin samples shows bacteria and inflammatory cells. Bacterial culture and sensitivity guide treatment, especially when resistance is suspected.
Topical antibacterial shampoos and wipes are first-line, with systemic antibiotics chosen by culture for deeper or widespread cases. Identifying and treating the underlying cause is essential.
Controlling underlying allergies, parasites, and hormonal disease and maintaining skin hygiene prevent recurrence.
This content is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you are worried about your pet, contact your veterinarian.
