At The Dermatologist’s Dog, we know that healthy skin is the foundation of a happy, comfortable pup. Canine pyoderma—bacterial skin infection—is one of the most common reasons dogs visit the vet, and it’s a leading cause of antibiotic use in small animal practice. Let’s talk about how grooming can trigger these infections, and how we can all do better for our dogs.
How Grooming Can Trigger Pyoderma
Rough or careless grooming is a major culprit in post-grooming skin infections. Clippers, harsh brushing, or aggressive de-shedding tools can create tiny abrasions, damaging the skin’s natural barrier and hair follicles. This opens the door for bacteria—especially Staphylococcus pseudintermedius and Pseudomonas aeruginosa—to invade.
Contaminated grooming products are another risk. Diluted or poorly stored shampoos and conditioners can harbor bacteria, and unsanitized tools or tubs only add to the problem. Outbreaks of post-grooming furunculosis have been directly linked to these lapses in hygiene.
Recognizing and Diagnosing Pyoderma
Pyoderma comes in three main forms:
- Surface pyoderma: Redness, scaling, and superficial pustules.
- Superficial pyoderma: Papules, pustules, and “collarettes.”
- Deep pyoderma (furunculosis): Painful, draining lesions, ulcers, and crusts.
Post-grooming furunculosis usually appears 1–7 days after grooming, with rapid onset of oozing lesions, fever, and lethargy. Cytology and bacterial culture are essential for accurate diagnosis and to identify resistant bacteria.
Treatment and Antimicrobial Stewardship
- Surface/superficial pyoderma: Start with topical antibacterial therapy; reserve systemic antibiotics for severe or stubborn cases.
- Deep pyoderma: Systemic antibiotics, ideally guided by culture, plus topical therapy.
- MRSA/MRSP: Use only culture-directed antibiotics; avoid empirical use of critical drugs.
Topical therapy is often effective and helps reduce unnecessary antibiotic use. Always address underlying causes—like allergies or hormonal issues—to prevent recurrence.
Prevention: Smart Grooming for Healthy Skin
- Demand strict hygiene: All tools, tubs, and products must be sanitized between dogs.
- Avoid diluted or old grooming products.
- Watch for signs of infection after grooming and act quickly if you see any.
- Learn gentle, safe grooming techniques to care for your dog at home.
The Takeaway
Responsible grooming and evidence-based care keep our dogs’ skin healthy and their tails wagging. By following best practices and prioritizing antimicrobial stewardship, we protect our pups—and the whole community. Because we love our dogs to the moon and back, let’s give them the healthiest skin possible!
With love and tail wags,
Jennifer Baron, M.D.
The Dermatologist’s Dog