In the hot and humid Singaporean weather, it is easy for both humans and animals to develop skin conditions such as rash, acne, and red spots. Our dogs are especially prone to developing canine acne because of their regular contact with the ground and elements around them. In addition, dog acne may also be a result of adolescence and puberty, just like in humans.

Some breeds of dogs, like English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, and Pugs, are more common breeds that get acne in Singapore. However, there are others such as Mastiffs, Boxers, Great Danes, and Doberman Pinschers that are less common breeds in Singapore which are also prone to canine acne.

What is Dog Acne?

Acne comes in a few different forms; such as red bumps, blackheads, pustules (bumps filled with pus), or swelling and redness around the muzzle.

Dog acne, or canine acne, can be a result of a number of different natural causes. This includes puberty in dogs, hormonal changes, allergic reactions to a food or the environment, and also poor hygiene.

More severe cases of dog acne can lead to infection, which can present painful and oozing sores, especially for dogs that are scratching or licking the area often to try to soothe their discomfort.

Dog pimples or acne can be caused by a clog or build-up of oil, bacteria and dead skin cells in a hair follicle. This build-up causes the pores to clog and become inflamed, creating a sore at the surface of the hair follicle. When bacteria and other particles are trapped in your pup’s hair follicles, their immune system releases white blood cells to combat the nasties in the infected area. This results in the oozing pus released from acne and pimples.

How Do You Treat Dog Acne?

Dog acne can often be treated at home with home remedies or easily available pharmaceutical solutions. Vets usually assess your dog’s skin conditions to check if its food-related. Otherwise, some topical ointments and medical soaps will be recommended by your pup’s doctor.

Common supermarket retail products such as coconut oil, aloe vera, and apple cider vinegar, are great solutions for soothing your dog’s acne and sores. They can also be used to soothe other skin allergies for your dogs.

However, if you are looking for a more effective and organic solution, healing balms such as Natural Dog Company’s Wrinkle Balm are also common ways to soothe and treat dog acne within 24 hours to 72 hours. This all-natural healing balm helps with sores, pimples, scabbing, cysts, and also itchy & flaky skin with a soothing scent. A favourite remedy amongst pawrents in Singapore!

How Do You Prevent Dog Acne?

Cleaning regularly with warm water

If you have a bulldog or a dog with folds, try to use warm water and a soft washcloth to clean their folds daily. Pet wipes are also an easy solution if you are on the go.

Keeping it dry

Dry their muzzle and face after your pooch drinks or eats, as dark and moist places are the perfect environment for bacteria and yeast to grow. Having a dry towel handy will be great for extra drooly dogs.

Disinfecting toys, bowls, and beds

Clean your dog’s toys and bowls regularly, preferably after each use or on a daily basis. Dog beds with washable covers are also preferred so that they can be cleaned and replaced if needed.

Brushing their teeth

Finally, brush your furkid’s teeth daily as their oral bacteria can be easily transferred to their face and muzzle through their drool. Certain food and water additives such as apple cider vinegar also help to control the amount of bacteria in their mouths.

Organic healing balms

Healing balms are an effective and natural way to keep your dog’s skin, muzzle, and folds healthy. You can apply wrinkle balm on your pooch’s face daily before sleep to keep them moisturised and set their skin on a healing journey as they go to sleep for the night. These organic balms also help to reduce the bacteria and yeast growing on your furkid’s face and doggy folds with its natural ingredients such as rosemary extract, coconut oil, and olive leaf extract, which are powerful anti-inflammatory agents.

Want to learn more about the best ways to treat your pet?

Subscribe to our mailing list below!

xo
Nellie