Skin Infections in Dogs

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 07.07.2026
Table of contents

When to visit the vet?

Non-urgent see a veterinarian within 2–3 days

?

ORANGE for fever/apathy, extensive weeping/ulcerating lesions, severe pain, deep pyoderma (fistulous tracts), rapid spread; RED for signs of shock.

Unsure about what’s wrong with your pet? Feel free to use our Symptom Checker for more clarity

Definition

Skin infections in dogs are conditions in which a dog’s skin becomes infected by bacteria, fungi, or viruses. These infections can cause a wide range of symptoms, including redness, itching, swelling, and sometimes hair loss.

Can Occur with the Following Diseases:

Basics and possible causes

Skin infections in dogs can be caused by different types of microorganisms. The most common are bacterial infections, triggered by bacteria such as Staphylococcus and Streptococcus. These bacteria are usually harmless, but they can cause infection if the skin barrier is weakened.

Another common cause of skin infections are fungi, especially dermatophytes, which are responsible for ringworm. These fungi feed on keratin, the main component of skin, hair, and nails, leading to itchy, scaly skin patches. Fungal infections are particularly contagious and can easily be transmitted from one animal to another.

Parasitic infections, such as those caused by fleas, mites, or ticks, can also lead to skin infections. These parasites can irritate the skin through bites or by laying eggs, which can trigger an inflammatory response and secondary bacterial infections.

Allergic reactions can also weaken the skin barrier, increasing the risk of skin infections. Allergies in dogs can be triggered by environmental factors such as pollen, house dust mites, or food, and often lead to severe itching, which increases the risk of secondary infections.

Typical accompanying symptoms

  • Itching: A common symptom of skin infections that can cause the dog to scratch or lick frequently. This can worsen the infection and delay healing.

  • Redness and inflammation: Infected areas of skin are often red and swollen, indicating the body’s inflammatory response to the infection.

  • Scaly or crusty skin: Infections can lead to changes in skin structure that appear as flakes or crusts.

  • Hair loss: Constant scratching or the infection itself can cause localized or generalized hair loss.

  • Foul odor: Especially with bacterial infections, the skin can develop an unpleasant smell.

  • Open wounds or ulcers: In severe cases, open wounds can occur, posing a risk of further infections.

When to see a vet?

You should see a veterinarian if the skin infection does not improve within a few days despite home care, or if the symptoms worsen. Particularly alarming signs include persistent itching, open wounds, strong odor, or fever, as these may indicate a serious or systemic infection.

If the dog shows signs of general illness, such as loss of appetite, lethargy, or behavioral changes, you should also seek veterinary help immediately. These symptoms could indicate that the infection is affecting not only the skin, but other parts of the body as well.

Even if the dog shows signs of allergic reactions, such as swollen eyes or respiratory distress, immediate veterinary care is necessary, as these symptoms may indicate a serious allergic reaction that needs to be treated immediately.

Symptom recognition for the pet owner and veterinary diagnostic procedure

It can be challenging for the pet owner to determine the exact cause of the skin infection, as the symptoms of various skin diseases are often similar. However, careful observation of the dog and the recognition of skin changes or behavioral changes are crucial for early detection.

For diagnosis, the veterinarian will perform a thorough examination of the dog. This often includes skin swabs or biopsies to determine the exact type of infection. A skin swab can help identify bacteria or fungi, while a biopsy can be useful to rule out more serious skin diseases.

Additional tests, such as blood tests or allergy tests, may be needed to identify underlying causes such as allergies or systemic diseases. Based on the examination findings, the veterinarian will recommend the appropriate treatment.

What the pet owner can do and professional therapy options

To relieve the symptoms of a skin infection in your dog, it is important to keep the affected areas clean and dry. Regular washing with an antiseptic shampoo recommended by your veterinarian can help reduce the bacterial or fungal load and support healing.

Avoid giving your dog medication without consulting the veterinarian, as some human medications can be dangerous for dogs. Special veterinarian-recommended lotions or sprays can be helpful to relieve itching.

A balanced diet and supporting a healthy immune system can also help promote healing and prevent future infections. Make sure your dog gets all essential nutrients and is free from stress.

In some cases, it may be necessary to fit the dog with a protective collar to prevent scratching or licking the affected areas, which could worsen the infection. Such a collar can also speed up the healing process.

Outlook on current research

Research into skin infections in dogs is a dynamic field, constantly providing new insights into causes, diagnostic methods, and treatment approaches. One key area of research focuses on identifying specific bacterial and fungal species that cause skin infections in dogs. Modern genetic analysis techniques are used to better characterize the complex microbial communities on dogs’ skin. These studies have shown that, alongside well-known pathogens such as Staphylococcus pseudintermedius, other previously overlooked microbes may also play a role.

Another area of research examines dogs’ genetic predisposition to skin infections. It is suspected that certain breeds are more prone to skin problems due to their genetic makeup. By analyzing genetic markers, researchers hope to better identify at-risk groups. These findings could not only lead to improved prevention measures, but also to the development of tailored therapies aligned with the genetic characteristics of individual dogs.

Developing new treatment methods is also a major focus of research. Scientists are working on new antibiotics and antifungals that specifically target the pathogens responsible for skin infections in dogs. In addition, alternative therapy approaches—such as using probiotics to support the natural skin flora and applying phages that selectively kill bacterial pathogens—are being intensively studied. These innovative approaches could help avoid antibiotic resistance, which is becoming an increasing problem in the treatment of skin infections.

A forward-looking research field is the development of vaccines against skin infections. Initial studies have shown that it is possible to stimulate dogs’ immune systems so they respond more effectively against certain bacterial pathogens. In the future, these vaccines could play an important role in the prevention of skin infections, especially in dogs that are prone to skin problems due to allergies or other underlying conditions.

In addition, researchers are examining how environmental factors—such as the dog’s diet, air quality, and contact with allergens—affect the risk of skin infections. These studies could provide valuable information on how targeted changes in living conditions can help prevent skin infections. Overall, research shows that skin infections in dogs are a complex problem with many influencing factors and must be addressed through interdisciplinary approaches.

Frequently asked questions

1. What are the most common symptoms of skin infection in dogs?
The most common symptoms of skin infection in dogs are redness, swelling, itching, and the appearance of pustules or crusts on the skin. Affected dogs often scratch themselves intensely, which can lead to further skin irritation.
2. How can I tell if my dog has a skin infection?
Observe your dog closely for signs of skin changes, such as redness or swelling. If your dog scratches or licks itself excessively, this could be an indication of an infection. If in doubt, you should consult a veterinarian who can provide an accurate diagnosis.
3. What causes skin infections in dogs?
Skin infections in dogs can be caused by bacteria, fungi, or parasites. They often occur as a result of allergies, injuries, or a weakened immune system. Environmental factors also play a role.
4. Are certain dog breeds more prone to skin infections?
Yes, certain breeds, such as Bulldogs, Shar-Peis, and Retrievers, are more prone to skin infections due to their genetic predisposition. These dogs often have more sensitive skin or skin folds that increase the risk of infections.
5. How are skin infections in dogs treated?
The therapy for skin infections depends on the cause. Topical or oral antibiotics are frequently prescribed. For fungal infections, antifungal medications may be necessary. Skin care products and special shampoos can be used as supportive measures.
6. Can skin infections in dogs heal on their own?
In some cases, mild skin infections can heal on their own, especially if the cause, such as an allergic reaction, is addressed. However, there is a risk that the infection will worsen without treatment, which is why a veterinary examination is advisable.
7. How can I prevent skin infections in my dog?
Regular grooming and cleaning of your dog's skin can help prevent infections. Ensure a balanced diet and avoid any allergen. For dogs with skin folds, it is important to keep them clean and dry.
8. Are skin infections in dogs contagious to humans or other animals?
Most skin infections in dogs are not directly transmissible to humans or other animals. However, some pathogens, such as certain fungi, can also infect other animals or, rarely, humans. Hygiene is therefore important.
9. How long does it take for a skin infection to heal in dogs?
The healing time depends on the severity of the infection and the chosen therapy. Mild infections can heal within one to two weeks, while more severe cases may take several weeks or even months.
10. What should I do if my dog's skin infection does not improve?
If the skin infection does not improve despite therapy, you should visit the veterinarian again. An adjustment to the treatment may be necessary, or there may be other underlying health issues that need to be addressed.