Skin Infection Affecting Dogs: An Examination by Veterinarian Catherine Barnette, DVM, Reviewed by Certified Veterinary Technician Emily Oliver, CVT, Published on February 1, 2022, and Last Reviewed on February 28, 2025.
Dogs can experience skin issues, just like humans, and one such condition is folliculitis. This article aims to provide a clear and straightforward overview of folliculitis in dogs, its diagnosis, and treatment.
Managing skin allergies is a crucial step in preventing folliculitis in dogs. However, for a definitive diagnosis, a visit to the vet is essential. During the visit, the veterinarian performs a physical examination, looking for lesions that are characteristic of folliculitis.
Dogs with hypothyroidism are at a higher risk of developing an endocrine disorder that can cause folliculitis. Therefore, it's important to ensure that any underlying endocrine diseases or immunosuppression are appropriately managed to prevent folliculitis.
Once bacterial folliculitis is diagnosed, treatment typically requires a combination of systemic and topical medications. Systemic antibiotics are given either orally or by long-acting injection, and medicated shampoo is prescribed. A bacterial culture and sensitivity may be recommended to determine the bacteria causing the folliculitis and the most effective antibiotic.
In addition to bacterial cultures, the veterinarian may perform a skin cytology to look for bacteria and yeast on the skin's surface. A skin scrape is used to rule out skin mites, and the vet checks for signs of fleas or other possible causes of folliculitis.
Fungal infections, such as ringworm, can also cause folliculitis in dogs. To rule out ringworm, a fungal culture and/or Wood's lamp examination are used. In some cases, a skin biopsy may be recommended to exclude other types of skin disease.
Treatment for bacterial folliculitis is usually continued for at least three weeks, with some dogs requiring several months of therapy. After the initial treatment, the veterinarian may schedule an appointment to recheck the dog's skin after two to three weeks to assess the response to the treatment.
In conclusion, prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment are key to managing folliculitis in dogs. Regular vet check-ups and maintaining good skin health can help prevent this condition and ensure your furry friend stays happy and healthy.
