I have a Shar-pei, and the skin on his face appears red and inflamed. What might be the cause?

Wrinkly dogs, such as Shar-peis and Pugs, are prone to an uncomfortable infection called skin fold pyoderma. The area between a dog’s skin folds is dark, warm, and moist, so bacteria and yeast can flourish there, causing inflammation. You’ll notice that an infected dog’s skin is red and smelly. There may even be discharge.

To prevent this common problem, keep your pet’s wrinkles clean and dry – especially around the face, armpit, and mammary glands. Obese dogs are also susceptible, so proper weight management may also help protect your pet.

If your dog does contract skin fold pyoderma, treatment will likely involve cleaning the area between the skin folds and administering either topical or oral antibiotics.

– Dr. Larry McDaniel, DVM for the “Purina® Animal Instincts” Podcast Series

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