Dog Vulvar Dermatitis Remedies

Vulvar dermatitis is a common yet uncomfortable condition that affects many female dogs. It’s caused by allergies, parasites, or infections and can cause inflammation, redness, itching, flaking skin, and even hair loss around the vulva area. Left untreated, it can lead to more serious skin problems and ongoing discomfort. The good news? With consistent dog grooming, proper dog hygiene, and the right products, this condition is highly manageable.

In this post, we’ll cover the most common causes of vulvar dermatitis, how to treat it effectively, and easy dog care tips to help prevent flare-ups—naturally and safely.

picture of a french bulldog lying on the ground

What Is Vulvar Dermatitis?

Vulvar dermatitis is an inflammatory skin condition that occurs around the folds and skin of a dog’s vulva. It's often seen in wrinkly or overweight dogs, but it can affect any dog breed. Signs include:

  • Redness

  • Itching

  • Flaking or crusty skin

  • Hair loss

  • Odor or discharge

Because this area is naturally warm and moist, it can easily trap bacteria, yeast, and debris—making it a perfect breeding ground for irritation if not cleaned regularly.

What Causes Vulvar Dermatitis?

The root causes of vulvar dermatitis vary, but most are linked to allergies, infections, poor hygiene, or parasites. Common triggers include:

  • Allergies - Food sensitivities, dust mites, pollen, or even certain grooming products can cause allergic reactions that lead to skin inflammation.
  • Parasites - Fleas, mange mites, or other parasites can irritate the skin, especially in sensitive areas like the vulva.
  • Bacterial or Fungal Infections - Warm, moist folds around the vulva can encourage yeast and bacteria to grow, causing itching, redness, and discomfort. Read more about it on our informative article here.
  • Skin Fold Moisture - Wrinkly dogs such as English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Pugs, or those with excess skin may have trapped moisture, which promotes dermatitis and hot spots if not managed.

How to Help:

Helping your dog feel better starts with daily grooming and gentle cleansing. Here’s a step-by-step guide using Squishface products designed specifically for sensitive skin:

Step 1: Cleanse the Area Daily

Use Squishface Wrinkle Wipes to gently clean the folds and skin around the vulva. These wipes are made with chlorhexidine and ketoconazole, which help fight both bacterial and fungal infections. They're free of harsh ingredients and safe for sensitive skin.

Step 2: Soothe and Protect

After wiping, apply Squishface Wrinkle Paste to create a moisture-repelling barrier. The paste includes coconut oil and shea butter, which help soothe irritated skin while keeping out dirt and bacteria.

Step 3: Keep the Area Dry

Moisture is a major cause of irritation. Keep your dog’s vulva area dry by gently patting with a Squishface Slobber towel after cleaning or bathing.

Preventing Future Flare-Ups:

Prevention is all about daily dog hygiene, skin maintenance, and using the right products consistently. Here’s how to keep your pup healthy and irritation-free:

  • Clean folds and sensitive areas daily with Squishface Wrinkle Wipes

  • Use Squishface Wrinkle Paste to create a barrier against moisture

  • Trim excess hair around the vulva to improve airflow

  • Bathe regularly with a gentle, pH-balanced dog shampoo

  • Switch to a limited-ingredient or hypoallergenic diet if food allergies are suspected

  • Add probiotics or skin-support supplements to promote healthy skin from within

  • Monitor for signs of licking, scratching, or redness and act quickly

Dog Breeds More Prone to Vulvar Dermatitis

Some dogs are more likely to develop this condition due to their body type or skin structure. Breeds that may need extra attention include:

  • English Bulldogs

  • French Bulldogs

  • Pugs

  • Boxers

  • Shih Tzus

  • Overweight or spayed female dogs

For these dogs, using Squishface products as part of your daily routine is especially helpful for managing and preventing skin fold dermatitis.

The Bottom Line:

Vulvar dermatitis in dogs can be uncomfortable, but with the right dog care routine, it's totally manageable. Staying on top of daily grooming, using high-quality products like Squishface Wrinkle Wipes and Wrinkle Paste, and supporting your dog’s skin health from the inside out will go a long way in keeping flare-ups at bay.

By creating a consistent, gentle hygiene routine and eliminating irritants, you’ll help your pup stay happy, healthy, and itch-free—naturally.

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