Pyoderma in Dogs (Bacterial Skin Infection, Pus in the Skin)

Pyoderma in Dogs (Bacterial Skin Infection, Pus in the Skin)

By: Dr. Mark Thompson

Section: Overview

Pyoderma is a bacterial infection of the skin. Pyoderma can be divided into surface pyodermas (infection on the skin surface), superficial pyoderma (infection within the skin) or deep pyoderma (infection under the skin).

The health impact from pyoderma can range from mild with superficial pyoderma to severe with deep pyoderma. Superficial and surface pyodermas can cause intense itching leading to discomfort. The underlying cause of the pyoderma may also have a negative health impact on the dog, depending on the disease.

What to Watch For

Any of these should trigger a visit to your veterinarian:

  • Red, itchy and painful skin lesions
  • Pustules (pimples)
  • Draining sores

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