Lip Fold Dermatitis in Wrinkly Dogs
Lip fold dermatitis is a skin condition that affects wrinkly dogs. It is also known as superficial pyoderma. The condition occurs when the skin folds become infected with bacteria or yeast. This can cause redness, itching, and irritation. Lip fold dermatitis is uncomfortable for dogs and can be difficult to treat. However, there are ways to manage the condition and keep your dog comfortable.
How Does Lip Fold Dermatitis Occur?
Lip fold dermatitis occurs when the skin folds around the lips trap moisture and debris. This can happen for a number of reasons, including:
- Excessive drooling
- Allergies
- Poor grooming and general dog care
- Underlying medical conditions
Dogs with allergies are particularly prone to lip fold dermatitis, as they are more likely to have irritated skin. Poor grooming can also lead to the condition, as it allows dirt and debris to build up in the folds of skin. Underlying medical conditions can also contribute to lip fold dermatitis, as they can cause changes in the skin that make it more susceptible to infection.
How is Lip Fold Dermatitis Treated?
Lip fold dermatitis is treated with a combination of antibiotics and antifungals. These medications can be given orally or topically. In some cases, your dog may also need to be bathed with a medicated shampoo. The goal of treatment is to clear the infection and soothe the irritation. Your doggo may need to be on medication for several weeks.
How Can Lip Fold Dermatitis Be Prevented?
The best way to prevent lip fold dermatitis is to keep your dog's skin clean and dry. This means regular grooming and cleaning of the folds of skin around the lips. You should also be sure to wipe your dog's face after they eat or drink with Wrinkle Wipes as they are the first step to cleaning and protecting your dog’s wrinkles. The Squishface Wrinkle Wipe formula was created specifically for sensitive skin dogs prone to allergies, and intentionally leaves out common and unnecessary irritants such as essential oils, aloe, fragrance and lanolin. If irritation is noticed around the face folds and nose, follow with Squishface Wrinkle Paste being mindful of the areas close to their mouths. While not intended for ingestion Wrinkle Paste moves quickly and safely through the system. Wrinkle Paste and Wrinkle Wipes are custom formulated for wrinkly short-faced breeds such as English Bulldogs, Pugs, Shar-peis and French Bulldogs. Click here for application tips!
If your pup has allergies, be sure to manage them with medication or avoidance. And, if your dog has an underlying medical condition, be sure to keep it under control.
The Bottom Line
Lip fold dermatitis is a common in certain breeds of dogs, and can be difficult to treat. Be sure to clean the folds of skin around your dog's lips regularly and wipe their face after they eat or drink. If your dog has allergies, be sure to manage them with medication or avoidance. And, if your dog has an underlying medical condition, be sure to keep it under control.
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