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Chronic Skin Infections in Dogs

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 06.02.2026

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ChronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. skin infections in dogs are persistentPersistent means lasting or continuing for an extended period. In veterinary medicine, it can refer to chronic diseases or symptoms that do not subside. or recurring skin infections caused by bacteriaBacteria are microscopic, single-celled organisms that exist in almost every environment on Earth. Some types of bacteria are beneficial or even essential to life, while others can cause disease., fungi, or other microorganisms. These infections can be difficult to treat and often require a long-term management strategy.

Can Occur with the Following Diseases:

Basics and possible causes

The skin is the largest organ in the body and serves as a protective barrier against external influences. In dogs, however, this barrier can be weakened by various factors, which can lead to infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. Healthy skin has a natural flora of microorganisms that live in balance. If this balance is disturbed, pathogenic microorganisms can proliferate and cause infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease..

A common cause of chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. skin infections is an underlying allergic reaction, such as a food allergyAn allergy is an overreaction of the immune system to a normally harmless substance, the allergen. The reaction can include symptoms such as skin rash, itching, sneezing, respiratory distress, or in severe cases, anaphylactic shock. or an environmental allergyAn allergy is an overreaction of the immune system to a normally harmless substance, the allergen. The reaction can include symptoms such as skin rash, itching, sneezing, respiratory distress, or in severe cases, anaphylactic shock.. Allergies can irritate the skin and lead to scratching or biting, which weakens the skin barrier and paves the way for infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. Hormonal imbalances, such as hypothyroidism or Cushing’s syndromeA syndrome is a group of symptoms that occur together and indicate a specific disease or condition. A syndrome can be caused by various factors and is often complex in its diagnosis and treatment., can also affect skin health and lead to infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease..

Another common problem is bacterial pyoderma, often caused by Staphylococcus bacteriaBacteria are microscopic, single-celled organisms that exist in almost every environment on Earth. Some types of bacteria are beneficial or even essential to life, while others can cause disease.. These bacteriaBacteria are microscopic, single-celled organisms that exist in almost every environment on Earth. Some types of bacteria are beneficial or even essential to life, while others can cause disease. can easily triggerA trigger is a stimulus that elicits a specific reaction or state. In veterinary medicine, this can refer to emotional responses, such as fear or aggression, or medical conditions, such as seizures in dogs and cats. infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. in the event of a weakened immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. or skin injuries. Fungal infections, such as those caused by Malassezia yeasts, are also a common cause of chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. skin problems in dogs.

Typical accompanying symptoms

Itching: A common symptom of skin infections, which causes the dog to scratch or bite excessively.
Redness and inflammation: Affected skin areas often show redness and swelling.
Hair loss: Infections can lead to local or generalizedGeneralized means that a disease or condition affects a large part of the body or multiple organ systems. Generalized diseases can show systemic symptoms and may require more comprehensive treatment. hair loss.
Scaling: The skin may appear dry and scaly.
Odor: Infected skin areas can develop an unpleasant odor.
Pain or discomfort: The dog may show pain, especially when touching the affected areas.

When to visit the vet?

A visit to the vet is essential if the dog shows signs of a skin infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. that lasts longer than a few days, worsens, or if new symptoms occur, such as fever or lethargy. A vet should also be consulted if the dog injures itself by scratching or biting.

ChronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. skin infections can be an indicationIndication refers to a valid reason or rationale for using a specific treatment, medication, or medical procedure. It is based on the diagnosis and the patient's clinical condition. of a more serious underlying disease, such as hormonal disorders or systemic diseases. Therefore, a professional diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and treatment is important in order to identify and effectively treat the cause.

Symptom recognition for animal owners and veterinary diagnostic procedures

It is important for the pet owner to pay attention to changes in the dog’s skin, such as redness, scaling, or hair loss. The dog’s behavior, such as excessive scratching or biting, should also be observed.

The vet will perform a thorough physical examination and may take skin samples to determine the type of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. This often includes skin swabs or biopsies. Blood tests may be necessary to identify underlying diseases such as allergies or hormonal disorders.

Sometimes allergyAn allergy is an overreaction of the immune system to a normally harmless substance, the allergen. The reaction can include symptoms such as skin rash, itching, sneezing, respiratory distress, or in severe cases, anaphylactic shock. tests are also necessary to identify and eliminate specific triggers. Based on the results, the vet will suggest an appropriate treatment.

What can pet owners do and professional therapy options

The pet owner can take some measures to alleviate the symptoms and support healing. It is important to keep the affected skin areas clean and dry to prevent the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. from worsening.

The use of special shampoos or skin care products recommended by the vet can help soothe and care for the skin. It is also important to keep the dog away from possible allergyAn allergy is an overreaction of the immune system to a normally harmless substance, the allergen. The reaction can include symptoms such as skin rash, itching, sneezing, respiratory distress, or in severe cases, anaphylactic shock. triggers and to choose a suitable diet in consultation with the vet.

In the meantime, the pet owner should make sure that the dog does not scratch or bite excessively in order to avoid further skin damage. Wearing a protective collar can help in severe cases to prevent the dog from further irritating the affected areas.

Outlook on current research

Chronic skin infections in dogs represent a significant field of research in veterinary medicine, especially since they are often difficult to diagnose and treat. Current studies focus on understanding the microbial flora of dog skin and its role in the development and maintenance of infections. The identification of resistantResistant means being insensitive to a substance, drug, or treatment. In dogs and cats, resistance can refer to the ineffectiveness of antibiotics against certain bacterial strains or the insensitivity of parasites to certain pesticides. bacteria strains and their genetic characterization are of particular interest in order to determine the most effective antibiotics and reduce resistanceResistance refers to the ability of microorganisms to withstand the effects of antibiotics, antifungals, or other antimicrobial drugs. Resistance can also refer to the body's ability to be insensitive to diseases or toxins..

Another research aspect is the dog’s immune responseAn immune response is the immune system's reaction to foreign substances (antigens), such as microorganisms or proteins. It involves a series of processes aimed at recognizing, fighting, and eliminating these antigens. to chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. skin infections. Scientists are investigating how the immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. responds to recurring infections and what factors can lead to a disturbed immune responseAn immune response is the immune system's reaction to foreign substances (antigens), such as microorganisms or proteins. It involves a series of processes aimed at recognizing, fighting, and eliminating these antigens.. It is believed that a dysregulation of the immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. plays a role that favors the recurrence of infections. New therapies aimed at modulating the immune responseAn immune response is the immune system's reaction to foreign substances (antigens), such as microorganisms or proteins. It involves a series of processes aimed at recognizing, fighting, and eliminating these antigens. are currently being tested and could represent promising options for the future.

The role of nutrition and environmental factors is also being intensively researched. Certain nutrients and nutritional strategies could help improve skin health and reduce the risk of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. At the same time, research is being conducted into how environmental factors such as allergens or climatic conditions can influence susceptibility to skin infections. The research aims to develop preventive strategies that focus not only on therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. but also on the preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. of skin infections.

Innovative technologies such as the genome sequencing of skin microbes are opening up new avenues for understanding the complex interactions between host and microorganisms. These technologies enable researchers to analyze the complete genetic makeup of the bacteriaBacteria are microscopic, single-celled organisms that exist in almost every environment on Earth. Some types of bacteria are beneficial or even essential to life, while others can cause disease. involved in chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. infections and could lead to the development of more targeted antimicrobialAn antimicrobial substance is an agent that serves to inhibit the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa, or to kill them. Antimicrobials are frequently used to treat infections. therapies. The integration of big data analyses into this research could also offer deeper insights into the mechanisms underlying chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. skin infections.

In conclusion, the interdisciplinary collaboration of veterinarians, microbiologists, and immunologists is of crucial importance in order to achieve a comprehensive understanding of this complex health problem. Research in this area is constantly evolving, and new findings could soon lead to innovative approaches in the preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. and therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. of chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. skin infections in dogs.

Frequently asked questions

What are the most common signs of chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. skin infections in dogs? Common signs include persistentPersistent means lasting or continuing for an extended period. In veterinary medicine, it can refer to chronic diseases or symptoms that do not subside. itching, redness, scaling, hair loss, and unpleasant odor of the skin. Affected dogs often scratch, bite, or lick the affected areas, which can lead to further skin damage.
What factors contribute to the development of chronic skin infections in dogs? Factors such as allergic reactions, hormonal imbalances, genetic predispositions, and environmental factors play a role. A weakened immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. can also increase susceptibility to infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease..
How are chronic skin infections diagnosed in dogs? The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is made by a thorough clinical examination, skin swabs, culture tests to identify bacteriaBacteria are microscopic, single-celled organisms that exist in almost every environment on Earth. Some types of bacteria are beneficial or even essential to life, while others can cause disease. or fungi, and, if necessary, blood tests. In some cases, a skin biopsyA biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small amount of tissue is removed from the body to be examined under a microscope for signs of disease. Biopsies can help diagnose cancer and other conditions. may also be necessary.
What treatment options are available for chronic skin infections in dogs? Treatment usually involves the use of topicalTopical refers to the direct application of medications or treatments to the skin or mucous membranes for a local effect, without being absorbed into the body. or systemic antibiotics, antifungalAntifungal means effective against fungal infections. Antifungal medications are used to treat infections caused by fungi by inhibiting their growth or reproduction, or by killing them. agents, or anti-inflammatory drugsAnti-inflammatory drugs are medications that reduce inflammation. They can be divided into nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids and are used in dogs and cats to reduce Inflammatory conditions and Pain.. An adjustment of the diet or living environment may also be necessary to alleviate the symptoms.
Can chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. skin infections in dogs be completely cured? A complete cure depends on the underlying cause of the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. While some infections can be treated successfully, others tend to recur and require continuous treatment and management.
How can I reduce the risk of skin infections in my dog? Regular care and hygiene, a balanced diet, and the avoidance of known allergens can help reduce the risk of skin infections. It is also important to pay attention to signs of skin problems and treat them early.
Are certain dog breeds more susceptible to chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. skin infections? Yes, certain breeds such as Bulldogs, Shar-Peis, Cocker Spaniels, and West Highland White Terriers are more susceptible to skin infections due to their genetic predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases. or skin condition.
Can a chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. skin infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. in my dog be transmitted to humans? Some bacterial or fungal skin infections, such as ringworm, can be zoonotic and transmitted to humans. It is important to take appropriate hygiene measures and minimize contact with infected areas.
What role do allergies play in chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. skin infections? Allergies can play a significant role, as they cause inflammatory conditions and itching, which damage the skin and can increase the risk of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. Proper diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and treatment of allergies is crucial for the management of skin infections.
How can I tell if the treatment for a chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. skin infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. is working? The effectiveness of the treatment is shown by a reduction in itching, redness, and other symptoms. Regular follow-up examinations with the vet are important in order to monitor progress and adjust the treatment if necessary.