When dogs get pimples, it is usually due to increased hormone levels, dirt, diet and anatomy. They are particularly common on the belly and snout. In most cases, waiting is the best option for treatment.
Pimples can occur anywhere there are pores in the skin. These pores are normally designed to produce sebum. This is the skin's natural protection.
It becomes a problem when the pores become clogged and inflamed due to too much sebum, dead skin cells, dried sweat or dirt. [1]
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Causes
In most cases, pimples in dogs are primarily caused by 4 things:
Neutered dogs get pimples significantly less often than unneutered dogs. Because during castration, the main production sites of sex hormones are literally removed.
However, increased hormone levels during puberty (~7 months of age) or during periods (every 6 months) can greatly increase the dog's sebum production. [2]
Curious four-legged friends and dogs who dig a lot tend to get a pimple more often. This is because they come into increased contact with dirt, dust and dirt.
This also explains why pimples in dogs most often appear on the stomach, snout or head. Even pimples on the eyes or ears are not uncommon.
Basically, the higher the proportion of processed carbohydrates or disguised sugar in dog food, the more likely it is that pimples will occur.
Cheap food in particular often contains unhealthy fillers. Instead, I recommend doing a free food check to receive recommendations and free food samples.
Dog breeds with a lot of wrinkles on their faces can have their pores clogged much more easily. In addition, dogs with shiny fur usually produce more sebum.
According to observations, bulldogs, Rottweilers, German Boxers, Dobermans and Great Danes often get pimples. In principle, it can affect anyone.
Dogs with elevated hormone levels and lots of wrinkles on their faces are most likely to struggle with pimples. That's why pimples can never be completely avoided. But constant contact with polluted environments and diet also play a key role.
Symptoms
Pimples can be recognized by the fact that white pus forms due to the inflammation, the area around it is red, it swells slightly and causes pain when touched.
To be sure that it really is a pimple, the following distinctions can help:
BlackheadPimpleOpen poreClosed poreBlack lumpWhite pusNo inflammationInflamedRarely bleedsCan bleedPainlessPain
It is precisely for this reason that pimples are referred to as “whiteheads” and blackheads are referred to as “blackheads” in English-speaking countries. [3]
If several pimples form around the dog's snout, it could also be an indication of existing food allergies. Here is the comparison:
Food allergiesPimplesLarge-area complaintsPoint-like symptomsSevere swelling & rednessMild swelling & rednessNausea & vomitingNo behavior changeSevere itchingNo itching
In addition, it is typical for food allergies that the symptoms primarily occur shortly after eating. Pimples, on the other hand, can appear at any time. [4]
Pimples in dogs can be recognized by the fact that the pore is completely closed, white pus forms, the area is red and slightly swollen. However, the dog's behavior remains unaffected. Itching is also rare here.
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Treatment
Pimples are usually harmless and nothing to worry about. It only becomes a problem if severe acne develops or other pathological symptoms occur.
- Should you pop the pimple?
No. This only causes the skin to become even more damaged, the area to become inflamed more easily and permanent scars to remain. [5]
In addition, you cannot compare the pain that dogs feel with yourself. Even if facial expressions are painless for you, it can be very painful for them.
- Are anti-pimple products from the drugstore okay?
No. Products developed for humans are usually too aggressive for animal skin. Application often only causes the skin to dry out and become flaky.
- What should you do instead?
Wait. Pimples resolve on their own within a few days. What you should remember here is that dogs' bodies are extremely efficient at healing.
In individual cases, home remedies such as green tea, aloe vera and apple cider vinegar can also help. However, when using vinegar, you should make sure that there are no open wounds.
- What helps against severe acne?
If your dog is having a really bad time, you could buy antibacterial or medicated shampoos that are specifically designed for dogs. [6]
Under certain circumstances, medication to regulate hormones may also be necessary. In this case, you should contact your veterinarian for recommendations.
- Are pimples from dogs transferable?
No. These are just small bacterial infections. You should primarily be careful with parasites and viral infections. Some of these are also transferable.
- Can you prevent pimples?
Partially. You can hardly influence hormone fluctuations. You can do this by ensuring a clean environment, bathing your dog regularly, and choosing quality food.
It can also help to wash the dog's muzzle twice a day with a mild dog shampoo and warm water.
The pimple should not be squeezed for treatment. Instead, it is advisable to wait and, if the symptoms become more severe, perhaps try home remedies. If you have acute acne, you should see a vet to get to the root of the problem.
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