Your dog is scratching again. You hear the rhythmic thud of a paw hitting the floor or the constant sound of licking in the middle of the night. When you check their belly, you see red bumps, scabs, or notice a strange smell coming from their fur. These can be the first signs of a common bacterial skin infection known as pyoderma. Skin issues can make your pet feel miserable and restless. We see many dogs in our Edmonton community struggling with these symptoms, and we know you want to provide them with quick relief. Providing the right care starts with understanding why these infections happen and how to handle them effectively. Our veterinary team focuses on identifying the root cause of your dog’s discomfort. By addressing the infection early, we can help your pet get back to their happy, playful self. CTA: Book your appointment today. Pyoderma literally translates to "pus in the skin." It’s a bacterial infection that often takes hold when the skin's natural defences are compromised. Most cases involve Staphylococcus bacteria, which normally live on the skin without causing trouble. However, if the skin is damaged or the immune system is busy elsewhere, these bacteria multiply and cause an infection. There are two main types: Noticing changes in your pet’s skin early can prevent a minor irritation from becoming a major problem. Symptoms of pyoderma vary, but you should look for: These signs often appear in warm, moist areas like the groin, armpits, or between the toes. If your dog has deep skin folds, these areas are especially prone to trapping bacteria. Pyoderma is rarely a primary disease. It’s almost always a secondary sign that something else is weakening your dog's skin barrier. Identifying this underlying trigger is essential for long-term health. Allergies are a leading cause of skin infections. Whether your dog reacts to certain ingredients in their food or environmental triggers like pollen and dust mites, the result’s the same: itchy skin. When your dog scratches, they create tiny tears in the skin that allow bacteria to enter. Fleas, ticks, and mites cause significant irritation. A single flea bite can lead to intense scratching in sensitive dogs. We recommend consistent parasite prevention to keep these triggers away from your pet. Underlying health issues like hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease can change the quality of your dog’s skin and coat. These conditions make the skin thinner and more susceptible to infection. Because many skin conditions look similar, a professional exam is necessary to find the right treatment. At Oxford Animal Hospital, we use several tools to get to the bottom of the problem. Our diagnostics and lab services allow us to: The goal of treatment is to clear the current infection and prevent the next one. This requires a two-prong approach. We generally prescribe oral antibiotics or topical medications to kill the bacteria. Medicated shampoos and sprays are also very effective, as they treat the skin directly and provide immediate soothing relief. It’s vital to finish the entire course of medication, even if the skin looks better after just a few days. If we find that allergies or a hormonal issue caused the pyoderma, we’ll create a plan to manage that condition. This might include a special diet, allergy medications, or daily supplements to strengthen the skin barrier. Our wellness and preventative care monitor these long-term health needs. While some dogs are naturally more prone to skin issues, you can take steps at home to reduce the risk. In most cases, pyoderma is not contagious. It’s usually caused by the overgrowth of bacteria already present on your dog's skin due to an underlying health issue. However, always wash your hands after treating your pet’s skin to maintain good hygiene. Avoid using human medications on your dog. Many over-the-counter creams contain ingredients that are toxic if licked, or can make the infection worse by trapping moisture. A professional diagnosis ensures you’re using the right product for your pet's specific needs. Recurring pyoderma usually means an underlying cause, like an allergy or hormonal problem, hasn't been fully managed. We work with you to identify these triggers to stop the cycle of infection. Most superficial infections start to improve within a week of starting treatment. However, deep infections can take several weeks or even months of consistent care to fully resolve. If food allergies are the trigger for the skin irritation, a hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient diet can make a massive difference. We’ll help you determine if a diet trial is a needed approach for your pet. Not necessarily. While medicated baths are helpful, over-bathing can dry out the skin and cause more irritation. We’ll provide a specific bathing schedule based on the medicated shampoo prescribed. Our hospital is here to support you and your pet through every itch and scratch. We provide the expertise and compassionate care needed to keep your pet’s skin healthy and their tail wagging. Let’s help your furry friend find relief. CTA: Schedule a skin consultation with our team today. Disclaimer: The information in this blog is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. For any health concerns regarding your pet, please schedule an appointment with our veterinary team.What Is Pyoderma?
Common Symptoms of Pyoderma
What Causes Pyoderma in Dogs?
Allergies and Sensitivities
Parasites and Pests
Hormonal Imbalances
How We Diagnose Pyoderma
Treatment Options for Your Pet
Clearing the Infection
Managing the Root Cause
How to Prevent Future Infections
Frequently Asked Questions About Pyoderma
Is pyoderma contagious to humans or other pets?
Can I treat pyoderma at home with over-the-counter creams?
Why does my dog's skin infection keep coming back?
How long does it take for the skin to heal?
Can a change in diet help with pyoderma?
Does my dog need a bath every day if they have pyoderma?
