Muzzle folliculitis and furunculosis in Dogs

Breeds documented
3
Published sources
2

Overview

Bacterial infection of the muzzle can inflame hair follicles, the small pockets from which hairs grow. When infected follicles break open, inflammation can extend deeper into the surrounding skin. The chin, lips or muzzle may become red, swollen and sore, with bumps, crusts or areas of hair loss. More severe lesions can form ulcers or discharge blood and pus.

Signs to watch for

  • Red bumps or pus-filled spots on the chin or muzzle
  • Swelling or redness around the muzzle
  • Patchy hair loss and crusted skin
  • Open sores or blood-filled blisters
  • Itching or painful skin around the affected area

Chin and muzzle pyoderma occurs mainly in young dogs.

When to get help Book a vet visit promptly for a swollen muzzle, painful bumps or draining sores.

Diagnosis and tests

Vets examine the bumps and sores and check skin samples under a microscope for bacteria and inflammation. Deep infections need a bacterial culture and testing to identify suitable antibacterial treatment. Other possible causes, such as skin mites, may need investigation because they can resemble or contribute to follicle disease.

Breeds with documented risk

3 breeds

By breed size
  • 1 Medium
  • 2 Large

Inheritance

  • Not yet known

    None of the sources we use states how this is inherited in dogs yet.

We've gathered what published sources say about this condition, so you can talk it through with your vet. It isn't veterinary advice: you and your vet know your dog best.

Sources

  1. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  2. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov