Impetigo in Dogs

A dog plays with a toy.

Canine impetigo is most common in puppies and is easy to handle in the first stages so that it does not spread to others. Identification and proper cleaning will provide a cure in a few days.

Identification

Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection that is most commonly found on the stomach of puppies, though it may also be contracted by adult dogs. This condition appears as small white pimples with localized redness and itchiness.

Types

There are two types of impetigo: bullous, which is the white pimple stage, and epidemic, which is the stage of yellow oozing.

Significance

If untreated, the white pustules will ooze and form a yellow crust, which can transfer to other canines and infect them.

Cleaning

At first indication of impetigo, clean the sites gently without bursting them using hydrogen peroxide or benzoyl peroxide twice a day for three days. This will effectively keep the condition from spreading.

Considerations

If canine impetigo is in the epidemic stage before you notice it, you may need to see a veterinarian to get antibiotics in order to cure the ailment.

References

• Dog Impetigo Symptoms
• Managing Dog And Puppy Impetigo
• Types Of Impetigo