Causes
Bacterial skin infection or pyoderma is very common in dogs. Affected dogs have an itchy skin, which may be reddened, have a rash, crusts and pustules (small pus-filled spots).
It can be triggered by an underlying disease such as:
- Hormone diseases such as: Cushing's disease, Hypothyroidism
- Allergies
- Young puppies
- Some breeds that have pronounced skin folds where bacteria can flourish. (e.g. Bulldogs, Cocker Spaniels)
It occurs when the skin’s natural defenses break down, allowing an overgrowth of common skin bacteria (such as staphylococci). Other organisms, such as yeast and fungal organisms, can also take advantage of the skin changes and multiply.
Signs
Bacterial dermatitis may be generalised or restricted to certain areas as in the case of skin folds, acne or hot spots.
While the disease can occur in any dog, certain breeds are more prone to bacterial dermatitis, such as German Shepherds.