If your dog has red bumps, crusty patches, hair loss, scabs, or an unpleasant odor coming from their skin, pyoderma may be the cause. Pyoderma is a bacterial skin infection and is one of the most common skin problems seen in dogs.

Some cases are relatively mild and affect only the surface of the skin, while deeper infections can become painful and much more difficult to treat. Pyoderma also frequently develops because of another problem—such as allergies, fleas, hormonal disease, or excessive moisture—so treating the infection is sometimes only the first step.

Fortunately, most dogs respond well to appropriate treatment. Finding out why your dog developed pyoderma can also help prevent the frustrating cycle of skin infections that disappear with treatment only to return a few weeks or months later.

In this guide, we’ll cover the symptoms of pyoderma in dogs, what causes bacterial skin infections, treatment options, healing time, home care, supplements that may support skin health, and how to prevent recurring pyoderma.

What Is Pyoderma in Dogs?

Pyoderma is a bacterial infection of the skin.

Dogs naturally have bacteria living on the surface of their skin. Normally, the skin barrier and immune system prevent those bacteria from causing problems.

When something damages that protective barrier, however, bacteria can multiply and cause an infection.

One of the bacteria most commonly associated with canine pyoderma is Staphylococcus pseudintermedius. It normally lives on many healthy dogs but can become problematic under the right conditions.

Pyoderma can affect dogs of any age or breed.

What Does Pyoderma Look Like on a Dog?

Pyoderma doesn’t always look the same.

Depending on the type and severity of infection, you might notice:

• Red bumps
• Pimple-like lesions
• Pustules
• Crusts
• Scabs
• Circular areas of scaling
• Hair loss
• Red skin
• Darkened skin
• Moist or irritated patches
• Itching
• Unpleasant skin odor

Some lesions resemble small pimples with a hair growing from the center.

Others develop into circular areas with scaling around the edges. These are sometimes called epidermal collarettes and are commonly associated with superficial bacterial skin infections.

Because pyoderma can resemble ringworm, mange, allergies, and other skin diseases, appearance alone isn’t enough to determine the cause.

Types of Pyoderma in Dogs

Veterinarians generally classify pyoderma based on how deeply the infection extends into the skin.

Surface Pyoderma

Surface pyoderma affects the outermost layers of skin.

Examples can include infections associated with skin folds and certain moist, irritated areas.

These infections may be relatively easy to treat if the underlying trigger is corrected.

Superficial Pyoderma

Superficial pyoderma extends into the epidermis and hair follicles.

This is one of the most common forms.

Signs may include:

• Pustules
• Red bumps
• Crusts
• Epidermal collarettes
• Hair loss
• Itching

Superficial bacterial folliculitis is a common example.

Deep Pyoderma

Deep pyoderma extends further into the skin and may involve deeper portions of the hair follicles and surrounding tissue.

Symptoms can include:

• Painful lesions
• Swelling
• Draining sores
• Blood or pus
• Deep crusts
• Significant inflammation
• Nodules

Deep infections require veterinary treatment and can take considerably longer to resolve.

Symptoms of Pyoderma in Dogs

Common pyoderma symptoms in dogs include:

• Red skin
• Pimple-like bumps
• Pustules
• Scabs
• Crusting
• Hair loss
• Flaky skin
• Itching
• Excessive licking
• Chewing the skin
• Skin odor
• Circular areas of scaling
• Darkened skin with chronic disease

Some dogs experience only mild itching, while others scratch constantly.

If the infection is deep or widespread, the dog may also appear uncomfortable or painful.

Where Does Pyoderma Usually Occur?

Pyoderma can develop almost anywhere.

Common areas include:

• Belly
• Armpits
• Groin
• Face
• Chin
• Paws
• Skin folds
• Back
• Neck

Dogs with skin folds may be particularly prone to infections in warm, moist areas where bacteria can multiply.

What Causes Pyoderma in Dogs?

Bacteria are responsible for the infection, but there is often an underlying reason the bacteria were able to cause disease.

Finding that reason is particularly important when infections keep returning.

Allergies

Allergies are one of the most common underlying causes of recurrent bacterial skin infections.

Dogs may have:

• Environmental allergies
• Food allergies
• Flea allergy dermatitis

Allergies cause inflammation and itching. Scratching, licking, and chewing then damage the skin barrier, making bacterial infection much easier to develop.

If your dog repeatedly develops pyoderma along with paw licking, ear infections, or chronic itching, allergies may be worth investigating.

Fleas and Other Parasites

Fleas, mites, and other parasites can cause intense itching.

Repeated scratching damages the skin and can create an opportunity for bacterial infection.

Year-round parasite prevention may help reduce this risk.

Moisture

Warm, damp skin creates an ideal environment for bacterial growth.

Dogs may be more susceptible after:

• Swimming
• Bathing without being thoroughly dried
• Spending time in humid environments

Moisture trapped within skin folds or thick coats may also contribute.

Skin Folds

Dogs with deep skin folds are particularly susceptible to bacterial and yeast overgrowth.

Common problem areas include:

• Facial folds
• Lip folds
• Tail folds
• Vulvar folds

Keeping these areas clean and dry may be an important part of long-term management.

Hormonal Diseases

Certain endocrine disorders can weaken the skin’s normal defenses.

These include:

• Hypothyroidism
• Cushing’s disease

Dogs with recurrent skin infections and other symptoms—such as weight changes, excessive thirst, hair loss, or lethargy—may require additional testing.

Immune System Problems

Dogs with weakened immune systems may be more susceptible to bacterial skin infections.

Certain medications that suppress immune function can also increase susceptibility.

Poor Grooming or Matted Fur

Matted fur can trap moisture, dirt, and debris against the skin.

Regular grooming helps maintain airflow and allows owners to detect skin problems before they become severe.

Is Pyoderma Contagious?

Most cases of canine pyoderma are not considered highly contagious to healthy dogs or people.

The bacteria involved often already live naturally on canine skin.

However, some bacteria can potentially spread between animals or, less commonly, people. Antibiotic-resistant bacteria are of particular concern.

Good hygiene is therefore still important.

Wash your hands after handling infected areas or applying medication, and follow your veterinarian’s recommendations if resistant bacteria are identified.

How Is Pyoderma Diagnosed?

Veterinarians can often suspect pyoderma based on the appearance of the skin, but additional testing helps confirm the diagnosis and identify other problems.

Testing may include:

• Skin cytology
• Skin scraping
• Hair examination
• Fungal testing
• Bacterial culture
• Antibiotic susceptibility testing
• Blood work
• Thyroid testing
• Allergy evaluation

Skin cytology is especially useful because cells and microorganisms collected from the skin can be examined under a microscope.

When Is a Bacterial Culture Needed?

A bacterial culture may be particularly important when:

• The infection is deep.
• Pyoderma repeatedly returns.
• Previous antibiotics haven’t worked.
• The infection worsens during treatment.
• Antibiotic-resistant bacteria are suspected.

Culture and susceptibility testing can identify the bacteria and determine which antibiotics are most likely to work.

This has become increasingly important because unnecessary antibiotic use contributes to antimicrobial resistance.

How Is Pyoderma in Dogs Treated?

Treatment depends on the depth and severity of the infection.

Your veterinarian may recommend:

• Medicated shampoo
• Antibacterial wipes
• Topical sprays or mousses
• Prescription antibiotics when necessary
• Treatment for allergies
• Parasite control
• Treatment of underlying hormonal disease

Topical therapy has become particularly important for many superficial bacterial skin infections and may reduce the need for systemic antibiotics in appropriate cases.

Medicated Shampoo for Pyoderma

Veterinary medicated shampoos are frequently used to manage bacterial skin infections.

One commonly used ingredient is chlorhexidine.

Depending on the product and your dog’s condition, medicated bathing may help:

• Reduce bacteria on the skin
• Remove crusts and debris
• Control odor
• Reduce surface contamination
• Support healing

Some products combine antibacterial and antifungal ingredients when both bacteria and yeast are present.

Follow your veterinarian’s instructions regarding how frequently to bathe your dog and how long the shampoo should remain in contact with the skin before rinsing.

Top Picks: Veterinary chlorhexidine shampoo, medicated wipes, antimicrobial mousse, and grooming supplies.

Does Pyoderma Always Require Antibiotics?

No.

Some superficial infections may be successfully treated with topical therapy alone.

More extensive, deep, or complicated infections may require oral antibiotics.

Veterinarians increasingly try to use topical treatment when appropriate to reduce unnecessary antibiotic exposure and the risk of antibiotic resistance.

If your dog is prescribed antibiotics, give them exactly as directed.

Do not use leftover antibiotics from a previous illness or another pet.

How Long Does Pyoderma Take to Heal?

Healing time varies.

A mild superficial infection may begin looking noticeably better within one or two weeks, while deeper infections can require several weeks or longer.

Factors affecting healing include:

• Depth of infection
• Severity
• Presence of resistant bacteria
• Underlying allergies
• Hormonal disease
• Whether the dog continues scratching

Even when the skin looks better, follow your veterinarian’s complete treatment plan.

Why Does My Dog Keep Getting Pyoderma?

Recurring pyoderma usually means there is an underlying problem that hasn’t been fully controlled.

Common reasons include:

• Environmental allergies
• Food allergies
• Flea allergy dermatitis
• Hypothyroidism
• Cushing’s disease
• Skin folds
• Chronic moisture
• Parasites
• Resistant bacteria

If your dog repeatedly improves with treatment and then develops another infection, ask your veterinarian about investigating the underlying cause rather than simply treating each episode individually.

Can You Treat Pyoderma at Home?

Suspected pyoderma should ideally be evaluated by a veterinarian, especially the first time it occurs.

Several conditions can look similar, including:

• Ringworm
• Mange
• Yeast infections
• Allergies
• Autoimmune skin diseases

Once your veterinarian has diagnosed the problem, they may recommend products you can use at home as part of treatment.

Avoid applying random human antibiotic creams, essential oils, hydrogen peroxide, or other home remedies to widespread skin infections without veterinary guidance.

The Best Diet for Dogs With Pyoderma

There isn’t a specific food that cures pyoderma.

However, good nutrition supports the skin barrier and normal immune function.

A complete and balanced diet should provide:

• High-quality protein
• Essential fatty acids
• Vitamins
• Minerals

If food allergies are contributing to recurrent skin disease, your veterinarian may recommend a strict elimination diet using a hydrolyzed or novel-protein veterinary diet.

Top Pick: Sensitive-skin dog food

Supplements That May Help Dogs With Pyoderma

Supplements don’t kill the bacteria responsible for pyoderma and shouldn’t replace prescribed treatment. However, certain supplements may support healthier skin and coat, especially in dogs prone to recurring skin problems.

Omega-3 Fish Oil

Omega-3 fatty acids are one of the most useful nutritional supplements for supporting canine skin health.

Potential benefits include:

• Supporting a healthy inflammatory response
• Helping maintain the skin barrier
• Supporting healthy coat growth
• Helping with dry, flaky skin
• Supporting joint, heart, and brain health

Omega-3s may be particularly useful when allergies contribute to recurrent skin inflammation.

Great Choice: Veterinary-formulated omega-3 fish oil for dogs.

Skin and Coat Supplements

Some canine skin supplements contain combinations of:

• Omega-3 fatty acids
• Omega-6 fatty acids
• Vitamin E
• Biotin
• Zinc

These nutrients may support normal skin cell turnover, coat quality, and skin barrier function.

Dogs eating a complete diet don’t necessarily need additional vitamins or minerals, so avoid unnecessarily combining multiple supplements.

Great Options: Veterinary skin and coat chews, oils, or powders.

Probiotics

Probiotics are sometimes marketed heavily for skin problems. They don’t directly treat bacterial pyoderma, but they may support digestive health and the gut microbiome.

Potential benefits include:

• Supporting beneficial intestinal bacteria
• Supporting normal digestive function
• Helping maintain healthy stool quality
• Supporting normal immune function

They may be particularly useful for dogs that also have gastrointestinal problems, although they shouldn’t be considered a replacement for skin infection treatment.

Top Pick: Veterinary-formulated canine probiotics.

Bathing a Dog With Pyoderma

If your veterinarian recommends medicated bathing, technique matters.

Start by thoroughly wetting the coat.

Apply the prescribed shampoo and work it down to the skin rather than simply washing the surface of the fur.

Many medicated shampoos need to remain on the skin for a specific amount of time before rinsing. Follow the product label and your veterinarian’s instructions.

Afterward:

• Rinse thoroughly.
• Dry the coat completely.
• Wash towels after use.
• Keep grooming tools clean.

Top Pick: Medicated shampoo

Preventing Pyoderma in Dogs

Not every infection can be prevented, but controlling underlying triggers can dramatically reduce recurrence.

Helpful strategies include:

• Maintain year-round parasite prevention.
• Manage allergies consistently.
• Dry your dog thoroughly after swimming.
• Keep skin folds clean and dry.
• Groom regularly.
• Feed a complete and balanced diet.
• Treat endocrine disorders appropriately.
• Keep veterinary follow-up appointments.
• Watch for early signs of skin infection.

For dogs with chronic allergies, preventing inflammation may be one of the most effective ways to prevent repeated bacterial infections.

Products That Can Help Dogs Prone to Pyoderma

Useful products may include:

• Chlorhexidine shampoo
• Medicated antibacterial wipes
• Antimicrobial mousse
• Fish oil supplements
• Skin and coat supplements
• Veterinary probiotics

When Should You Contact Your Veterinarian?

Schedule an appointment if your dog develops:

• Pustules or pimple-like lesions
• Spreading redness
• Circular crusty patches
• Significant hair loss
• Persistent itching
• Bad skin odor
• Draining sores
• Swelling
• Painful skin
• Recurrent infections

Deep, painful, rapidly spreading, or draining lesions should be evaluated promptly.

You should also contact your veterinarian if a diagnosed infection isn’t improving as expected during treatment.

Final Thoughts

Pyoderma is one of the most common bacterial skin infections in dogs, and fortunately, most cases respond very well to appropriate treatment. The bigger challenge for many dogs is figuring out why the infection developed in the first place.

A single superficial infection may resolve with topical therapy and never return. But if your dog develops pyoderma repeatedly, there may be an underlying issue such as allergies, fleas, hypothyroidism, Cushing’s disease, or another condition affecting the skin barrier.

Rather than repeatedly treating each flare-up, working with your veterinarian to identify and control that underlying trigger can make an enormous difference.

With appropriate veterinary treatment, regular skin care, good nutrition, parasite prevention, and supportive products when appropriate, most dogs with pyoderma can get back to comfortable, healthy skin.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pyoderma in Dogs

What is pyoderma in dogs?

Pyoderma is a bacterial infection of the skin. It may affect only the surface layers or extend deeper into the hair follicles and surrounding tissues.

What does pyoderma look like on a dog?

Pyoderma may cause red bumps, pustules that resemble pimples, crusts, scabs, circular areas of scaling, hair loss, redness, and sometimes an unpleasant odor.

What causes pyoderma in dogs?

Bacterial overgrowth causes the infection, but underlying problems such as allergies, fleas, mites, hormonal disorders, skin folds, or chronic moisture frequently make the skin more susceptible.

Is pyoderma contagious?

Most routine cases aren’t considered highly contagious because the bacteria involved commonly live on healthy canine skin. However, good hygiene is still important, particularly if antibiotic-resistant bacteria are present.

Can humans catch pyoderma from dogs?

Transmission is uncommon, but some canine bacteria can potentially infect people. Wash your hands after handling infected skin, and take additional precautions if your veterinarian identifies a resistant bacterial infection.

How do veterinarians diagnose pyoderma?

Skin cytology is commonly used to look for bacteria and inflammatory cells. Your veterinarian may also perform skin scrapings, fungal testing, blood tests, or a bacterial culture depending on the situation.

What is the best treatment for pyoderma in dogs?

Treatment depends on severity. Veterinary medicated shampoos, wipes, sprays, or mousses may be sufficient for some superficial infections, while deeper or complicated infections may require prescription oral antibiotics.

Is chlorhexidine good for pyoderma in dogs?

Chlorhexidine is commonly used in veterinary topical products for bacterial skin infections. The appropriate concentration, product, and bathing frequency should be selected with your veterinarian.

How long does pyoderma take to heal?

Mild superficial infections may begin improving within one or two weeks, while deeper infections can take several weeks or longer to resolve completely.

Why does my dog’s pyoderma keep coming back?

Recurring pyoderma often indicates an underlying problem such as allergies, flea allergy dermatitis, hypothyroidism, Cushing’s disease, parasites, skin folds, or resistant bacteria.

Can allergies cause pyoderma?

Yes. Allergies are one of the most common reasons dogs develop recurrent bacterial skin infections because inflammation, scratching, and licking damage the protective skin barrier.

Can I treat my dog’s pyoderma without antibiotics?

Some superficial infections can be treated successfully with veterinarian-directed topical therapy without oral antibiotics. Deep or severe infections may still require systemic treatment.

Does fish oil help dogs with pyoderma?

Fish oil doesn’t kill bacteria or cure pyoderma. However, omega-3 fatty acids may support the skin barrier and a healthy inflammatory response, particularly in dogs with underlying allergic skin disease.

Are probiotics good for dogs with pyoderma?

Probiotics don’t directly treat the bacterial skin infection. They may support digestive and normal immune function and can be considered supportive care when appropriate.

When should I take my dog to the veterinarian?

Have your dog evaluated if you notice pustules, spreading redness, crusting, significant itching, hair loss, odor, painful lesions, or draining sores. Recurrent infections also deserve further investigation to identify the underlying cause.

Snout and About Team

The Snout and About team includes pet owners and animal health professionals with backgrounds in animal science and veterinary medicine and firsthand experience managing serious pet health conditions. Our goal is to make veterinary information accessible and actionable for everyday pet owners.