Dogs can get blackheads just like people. In most cases it is caused by the pores becoming clogged due to increased sebum production. This is particularly common in bitches around the teats, back and stomach.
Doctors also refer to blackheads as “comedones”. They can basically occur anywhere the dog has pores. So almost all over the body.
Below you will learn about the most common causes, how to recognize them and what to do in specific cases.
Are you worried or unsure? Then click here to start a live chat with a veterinarian.
Causes
The dog's body has sebaceous glands. The sebum ensures that the skin does not dry out and become cracked. If you will, it's your daily skin cream.
Dogs have skin pores so that the sebum can migrate to the outside. However, if these become blocked, then we are talking about a blackhead. Typical causes are:
Dead skin cells, dust, dried sweat or other dirt can be enough for the pores to become clogged and a blackhead to form.
This also explains why blackheads very often develop on the teats of female dogs. Hormonal fluctuations can cause some milk to leak.
Cushing's syndrome is a hormonal disorder that leads to chronically elevated levels of stress hormones. Among other things, this can also cause blackheads.
In most cases, however, you can recognize Cushing's syndrome if your dog drinks unusually much, is panting heavily, and their hair is falling out in places. [1]
The male sex hormone testosterone in particular is said to have a strong influence on dogs' sebum production. Blackheads during puberty are therefore relatively normal.
This applies at least to unneutered dogs. In neutered four-legged friends, the production of hormones is severely restricted. But periods can also influence hormones.
- Schnauzer comedone syndrome
This skin disease primarily occurs in Miniature Schnauzers. Despite the name, it can also affect Cairn Terriers and other rough-haired terrier breeds.
For genetic reasons, there are large areas on the skin where blackheads form. It can't be cured, but it can be treated well. [2]
If dogs eat cheap dog food every day, this can also lead to skin problems over time. The fillers are usually to blame.
Because many of the cheapest additives are very high in carbohydrates and sugar. You should also avoid giving your dog sweets intended for people.
Blackheads are considered a mild form of acne and tend to form in wrinkled skin. This in turn explains why dogs with a lot of wrinkles are more often affected.
Typical examples of these are Shar-Peis, bulldogs, pugs, Pekingese, basset hounds, Rottweilers, Dobermans, bloodhounds and all types of mastiffs.
In most cases, impurities or hormonal fluctuations are responsible for blackheads in dogs. Under certain circumstances, they can also be an indication of Cushing's syndrome, unsuitable food and Schnauzer comedone syndrome.
This website is for sale.
Symptoms
Blackheads on dogs look very similar to those on humans. In most cases, however, they are almost black, slightly larger and are primarily in areas with little hair.
If there are bacteria in the clogged pores, the blackheads can also become inflamed. In this case we are talking about a pimple. Here are the differences in comparison:
PimpleBlackheadWhite colorBlack colorPore closedPore openRedness & swellingNo redness & swellingInflammationNo inflammationWith painPain-free
This also explains why in English people refer to blackheads as “blackheads” and as “whiteheads” when referring to pimples.
Blackheads are significantly more common in all hairless dogs. This is because these breeds produce increased amounts of sebum to protect the skin. [3]
Blackheads in dogs can usually be recognized by their black color and open pores. In contrast to pimples, the pores are open and there is no redness. In addition, blackheads are usually painless and without any swelling.
Treatment
Blackheads are generally considered harmless. As a rule, there is only cause for concern if there are a lot of them or if it is a permanent condition.
- Does it help to express the blackheads?
Not really. Because in most cases, squeezing causes damage to the skin and can introduce bacteria. Inflammation therefore occurs more easily.
It is also unclear how sensitive dogs' skin is when expressing themselves. Because the four-legged friends' sense of pain is not comparable to ours. [4]
Wait and do nothing. Blackheads come out on their own once they reach a certain size. This is completely painless and leaves no trace.
As satisfying as squeezing out blackheads may look, it is not recommended:
https://youtu.be/v0Bw2lzZplw?t=14
- Can you prevent blackheads?
That depends on the cause. You are powerless to prevent hormonal fluctuations, breed-specific problems or illnesses.
To do this, you can bathe your dog regularly, keep the environment clean at all times and use high-quality food. This is especially true for hairless dogs.
- Which resources can help?
Under no circumstances should you lubricate the skin with additional fat. This only makes the pores clog much more easily.
Instead, regular washing with a mild dog shampoo helps. According to the Internet forums, owners have sometimes achieved good results with apple cider vinegar. [5]
- When should you see the vet?
If you are unsure whether these are really blackheads or whether there are an awful lot of them. If necessary, the hormones can also be regulated with medication.
Blackheads are basically harmless and do not require any treatment. In most cases, expressions also cause more harm than good in dogs. Instead, it is recommended to wash the dog regularly and keep the environment clean.
Most read articles:
- The 25 coolest inventions for dogs
- 31 original gift ideas for dog owners