Can I Use Hydrogen Peroxide on My Dog's Skin Folds?

Hydrogen peroxide is often used as a disinfectant or cleaning agent. It can be found in many household cleaners and is used to clean cuts and scrapes on humans. But what about our dogs? Can hydrogen peroxide be used on their skin folds?

Skin folds are the wrinkles and creases on a dog's skin that are caused by the loose skin around their necks, chests, and backs. These wrinkles often become infected with bacteria, which can lead to serious health problems. Hydrogen peroxide is often used to clean wounds and kill bacteria, so it seems like it would be a good choice for cleaning skin folds. However, there are some things you should know before using hydrogen peroxide on your dog's skin folds.

Is Hydrogen Peroxide Harmful to Dogs?

There are mixed opinions about using hydrogen peroxide on your dog's skin, mainly due to questions concerning its purported antibacterial properties. It is generally safe for dogs when used as directed. However, it can cause irritation if it gets into your dog's eyes, nose, or mouth.

While hydrogen peroxide is safe for most dogs, there are some exceptions. Dogs with wrinkly skin, such as Bulldogs, Frenchies and Pugs are more susceptible to skin infections. This is because their wrinkles provide a natural, warm, damp environment for bacteria to grow. For these dogs, it is best to avoid using hydrogen peroxide on their skin folds. Additionally, due to the sensitive nature of their skin, they are more prone to developing allergic reactions to chemicals and other harsh compounds.

If you choose to use hydrogen peroxide on your pup, it is important not to use it more than once or twice a week, as this can dry out your dog's skin and make the wrinkles more prone to infection. Additionally, don't apply undiluted hydrogen peroxide to your dog's skin as this can cause irritation and even burns. Finally, don't use hydrogen peroxide if your dog is allergic to it. Signs of an allergic reaction include redness, swelling, and itching. If you notice any of these signs, rinse your dog's skin with water and contact your veterinarian.

What Should I Use Instead?

There are many other options for cleaning your dog's skin folds. Whatever you choose to use, make sure you test it on a small area of your dog's skin first to make sure they are not allergic to it.

Wrinkly dog pet parents know that consistency is very important when taking care of their sensitive skin folds and wrinkles. Squishface products were designed to help pet parents introduce a safe, allergen free cleaning routine to keep their pup's skin folds looking great and smelling fresh.

Squishface Wrinkle Wipes are the first step to cleaning and protecting your dog’s wrinkles, tear stains and tail pocket! These pre-moistened wipes are perfect for between baths and help deodorize your pups. Wrinkle Wipes come in an enclosed package so you can use it at home, in the car, at the dog park or anywhere else your dog goes with you. Unlike hydrogen peroxide, our wipes are gentle enough for even the most sensitive and allergy-prone dogs. Our formula contains phytosphingosine which is a skin lipid with anti-inflammatory and microbe repelling properties. It helps rebuild the natural ceramides found in the skin barrier that are critical in helping keep the skin healthy. So not only do our wipes clean the skin of the bad stuff but also actively help to rebuild the skin.

Use Squishface Wipes prior to application of Wrinkle Paste or Tear Stain Paste instead of soap and water, which can irritate sensitive skin. It’s recommended that you use the product for 7 – 10 days. Once you reach the desired results, apply once every other day or as needed for maintenance. Check out our Wrinkle Wipe Instructions video here.

The Bottom Line:

Cleaning your dog's skin folds is important to their health, but it is important to do it safely. Hydrogen peroxide can be useful in many different situations such as urine odor removal or inducing vomiting in cases of poisoning in dogs. For skin fold issues however, there are many other safer options such as Squishface Wrinkle Wipes which is specifically designed for sensitive skin dogs that are prone to allergies.

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