How Do You Treat Skin Folds in Dogs?
Skin folds are common in certain dog breeds, such as the English and French Bulldogs, Pugs and Shar-Peis. They can also be found in mixed breeds. Skin folds are areas where the skin is folded over and occur when there is extra skin on the body that creates a fold. The most common areas for skin folds are on the face (such as the wrinkles on a Bulldog's face), under the chin, around the bum (tail pockets), and in between the toes. While they can be cute, if not properly cared for, skin folds can become irritated, infected, and even smelly.
Common Problems Associated with Skin Folds
There are several common problems that can occur with skin folds, especially if they are not cleaned regularly. These include:
- Irritation: When skin rubs together, it can become irritated and even raw. This is especially common in between the toes, where skin folds can trap moisture and dirt.
- Infection: Because skin folds are often moist and warm, they can be a breeding ground for bacteria and yeast. This can lead to skin infections, which may require antibiotics to clear up.
- Smell: Skin folds can also trap sweat, oil, and other materials that can create a bad smell. This is especially common in dogs with wrinkles on their face.
- Weather: Skin folds can also make dogs more sensitive to extreme weather conditions, such as heat and cold.
Best Ways to Keep Skin Folds Clean and Healthy
The best way to prevent problems with skin folds is to keep them clean and dry. This means that if you need to bathe your doggo, use a mild dog shampoo. Rinse them thoroughly as soap residue can cause irritation and then drying them thoroughly. In between baths, use Squishface Wrinkle Wipes as they are the first step to cleaning and protecting your dog’s skin folds, tear stains and tail pocket! Our wipes have phytosphingosine in them and no other dog wrinkle wipes have that. Phytosphingosine 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.
Pay close attention after swimming or being in the rain as wet skin folds are more susceptible to irritation and infection. Dry your dog off as soon as possible after they get wet. Additionally, it's recommended to stay vigilant during high heat and humidity as they can contribute to developing skin fold problems in wrinkly dogs, so be sure to keep an eye on your pup during hot weather. If possible, try to stay in the shade and avoid strenuous activity. If you notice any redness, irritation, or excessive panting, be sure to take a break and cool down.
Following a cleaning routine with Wrinkle Wipes, use Squishface Wrinkle Paste on your pup's skin folds. Our paste forms a water-repellent barrier on the skin surface which keeps moisture, yeast, fungus and other bacteria at bay resulting in happy, protected and fresh smelling skin folds. Wrinkle Paste is great for any dogs with wrinkles. For best results we recommend applying fresh Wrinkle Paste once daily for 7 to 10 days.
Check out these before and after pictures and remember that consistency is key in treating any skin conditions in wrinkly dog breeds.
The Bottom Line
Skin folds are common in certain dog breeds, but if not properly cared for, can become irritated, infected, and smelly. The best way to prevent problems is to keep them clean and dry. Use Squishface Wrinkle Wipes to whisk away dirt and grime in wrinkle folds, around tear stains, tail pockets, and between toes. Additionally, use Wrinkle Paste as a protective barrier on your dog’s nose rope, wrinkles and skin folds. Be sure to check your doggo's skin folds consistently for any signs of irritation, redness, or discharge. If you notice anything unusual, be sure to take them to the Vet for an examination.
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