Skin Blisters And Pustules In Dogs - Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, Recovery, Management, Cost

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Skin Blisters and Pustules in Dogs

Skin Blisters and Pustules in DogsWritten By Darlene StottPublished: 12/02/2015Updated: 03/05/2021Veterinary reviewed by Michele K.What are Skin Blisters and Pustules?Cancer, bacteria, and inflammation are just a few of the conditions that may cause secondary skin complications which can result in skin blisters and pustules. Most of the skin conditions that affect dogs are visible to the eye. As well, your pet will surely let you know of his discomfort because skin irritations can be painful. It is important to address a skin condition promptly in order to eradicate the underlying cause, and return your pet to his normal state of health.Skin blisters and pustules result from various causes, and can lead to extremely serious complications. Bacterial infections can be the source of severe outbreaks of the skin. Also known to have an effect on the skin are autoimmune diseases. Skin eruptions can evolve to a life-threatening state. If your dog is suffering from a skin condition, a visit to the veterinarian is crucial.Youtube PlaySkin Blisters and Pustules Average CostFrom 42 quotes ranging from $300 - $1,500Average Cost$550Protect yourself and your pet. Compare top pet insurance plans.

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Symptoms of Skin Blisters and Pustules in DogsSkin blisters and pustules can cause much anxiety for your pet. Prompt diagnosis of the reason for the outbreak is necessary to prevent the skin condition from getting out of hand. Your dog may exhibit the following signs and symptoms indicating a serious problem with the skin:

Warm, humid areas, such as folds in the neck, may appear red and ulcerated
Pressure points, like the elbow, may have welts or scabs
Ulcers can also emerge around the eyes, in the ears, and on the footpads, anus, groin, or axillae (armpits)
Blisters can develop in the mouth and also on the skin around the nails
There may be scaling of the skin, hair loss, or bald patches
Yellow pustules or sacs of fluid may secrete blood or pus and turn crusty
There might be an odor no matter how much you clean the area
Your dog may display signs of pain
Depression
Lack of appetite
Fever
Pruritus (inability to resist licking, scratching, or attempts at self-harm in an effort to stop the irritation and itch)

Types Skin blisters and pustules can appear in an acute form, and may at times resolve (for a short period) on their own. In all cases, treatment is recommended in favor of resolution because a skin condition can lead to life-threatening circumstances. Additionally, removing the cause of the problem is necessary for a cure or control of the condition.

Pyodermas

Caused by a bacterial skin infection
Presence of yellow pustules that can ooze and itch
Mostly found on the trunk area, obese dogs or dogs with short faces are predisposed to infection in skin folds
Also found on toes, callouses on feet, and the abdomens of puppies
Not contagious to other pets or to humans

Skin Fold Dermatitis

Bulldogs are prone
Skin becomes red
Irritation might be found on the lips, face, and vulva
May progress with severe complications if left untreated

Cutaneous Lymphoma

This is a rare type of skin cancer
Displays with itching ulcers, redness, and nodules
Unfortunately this skin condition may not respond to treatment

Autoimmune Skin Conditions

Pemphigus Foliaceus

Akitas are prone
The skin around the nails can be affected
Ulcers may also be found in the ears, eyes, footpads and groin

Pemphigus Vegetans

Presents with chronic oozing and pus
Is more prevalent warmer sunny climates
Sun is a potential trigger

Pemphigus Vulgaris

Appears with fluid-filled blisters
Become open sores as the blisters rupture easily
Found in mouth, nostrils and around anus

Pemphigus Erythematosus

There will be scaling of skin
Irritation begins with redness and crusty patches
There may be hair loss specifically on nose

Bullous Pemphigoid

Presents with welts first
Next stage is sacs of clear fluid
Can be very itchy
The most common places it is found are the mouth, axillae (armpits) and groin

Causes of Skin Blisters and Pustules in DogsSkin blisters and pustules can occur for a variety of reasons, some of which are listed below:

Staphylococci bacteria over colonizes
Warm, moist areas can develop a high bacteria count
Skin conditions can be secondary to allergies or parasites
In the case of an autoimmune disease, the body attacks the immune system
Healthy cells are mistakenly attacked resulting in separation of skin
Pyodermas can result from damage to the skin like tumors, urine scalding or bite wounds
Medications for illnesses such as liver disease or cancer can cause an immunosuppression that leads to a skin condition
Genetics may play a role in problems with the epidermis

Diagnosis of Skin Blisters and Pustules in DogsThe diagnosis of skin blisters and pustules can be complex. Identification of the underlying cause is paramount to the resolution of the skin issue. The veterinarian will need a complete history, as detailed as possible, in order to begin the diagnostic process. The veterinarian will want to know the following information:

Specifics on your pet’s diet (brand of food, treats)
Medications your dog may be taking
Grooming products used (bring labels for analysis)
Recent illnesses
Travel history

The appearance and location of the blisters or pustules can provide a clue to the type of skin condition. However, the veterinarian will also need to perform certain tests to definitively diagnose the lesions. To begin, it is possible that blood tests and allergy tests will be ordered. A skin biopsy may be done. It is called a punch biopsy and involves taking a small round block of skin. The biopsy may be done using a local anesthetic, but if your dog is nervous or stressed, or if the biopsy involves the face or nose, sedation or a general anesthetic will be suggested. Needle aspirate cytology used to examine cells, and skin scraping, in order to exclude causes like parasites, may also be performed. Culturing the skin, in an attempt to grow and identify bacteria, along with a fungal culture and adhesive tape prep (to examine cells, yeast or other abnormalities under the microscope) are additional tests that may be performed.Treatment of Skin Blisters and Pustules in DogsTreatment will involve the resolution of the underlying cause if needed, as well as a variation of methods depending on the type of skin condition. In the case of an autoimmune issue, corticosteroids, which are drugs that lessen the efforts of the immune system to attack, will be given along with other immunosuppressant medications. It should be noted that depending on the skin condition; some immunosuppressants can be given during flares only, once the initial problem is under control. An autoimmune related skin condition is rarely curable but may be managed quite well with medication. In instances of pyodermas, 3 to 4 weeks of antibiotics may be prescribed. The antibiotics might be in oral and topical form. Bathing with a medicated shampoo 2 to 3 times a week is required, and in severe cases a daily bath may be vital to a positive outcome. Included in the treatment protocol may be anti-inflammatories to reduce swelling and pain, acupuncture, light therapy or a dietary overhaul.

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Recovery of Skin Blisters and Pustules in DogsThe recovery of a serious skin condition is never a quick process. For example, healing of pyodermas can take up to 8 to 12 weeks. However, a mild improvement should be evident within 14 to 21 days of the start of treatment. Recurrent cases are possible and sometimes will need a staphylococcal vaccine in order to see results. Attention to grooming is essential. The services of a professional groomer should be sought out. Removal of hair, because of the likelihood of trapping bacteria, is key to avoiding a recurrence of the problem. Continual use of oral and topical antibiotics may be necessary for some time. The use of bandages or an Elizabethan collar could be recommended by the veterinarian to lessen the licking and biting that your dog might want to do. With the use of corticosteroids for autoimmune related skin problems, you will need to be aware of possible side effects. Changes in appetite (decrease or increase), panting, increased drinking of water and thus, more urination, vomiting, and inactivity may be evident in your dog’s behavior. Consult the veterinarian promptly to address the side effects. Avoid direct sunlight with skin problems diagnosed in the pemphigus family of conditions. Never stop antibiotics or ointments prematurely. Frequent check-ups with the veterinary caregiver are part of the recovery (may include blood tests and urinalysis to monitor side effects of the therapy), as is diligent skin care at home.Skin Blisters and Pustules Average CostFrom 42 quotes ranging from $300 - $1,500Average Cost$550Protect yourself and your pet. Compare top pet insurance plans.TopSkin Blisters and Pustules Questions and Advice from Veterinary ProfessionalsPit BullSeven Years

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My pet has the following symptoms:ItchingMy dog has puss filled bumps all over her back legs and stomach. As well as she’s licked all the hair off her back legs.May 3, 2021Answered by Dr. Sara O. DVM74 RecommendationsHello, these spots are pustules. From the picture, it looks like your dog has a skin infection. It would be best for her to see your vet for antibiotics. You can give Benadryl to help some. The dosage is 1mg/pound twice a day. Also, an oatmeal or medicated bath will help soothe her skin.May 3, 2021Was this question and answer helpful?

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great dane/rednosed pitt6 Years

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My pet has the following symptoms:Bumps Eveverywhere, Hairloss, When Sqeezed Bumps Hard Yellow Something Comes Out Folled With BloodMy dog has small pimple sized bumps everywhere and when sqeeze bumps something hard and yellowish comes out followed by blood. Shes not scratching or acting off or scratching n biting at herself at all.March 1, 2021Answered by Dr. Linda S. MVB MRCVS32 RecommendationsI'm sorry to hear this. This sounds like a bacterial infection (pyoderma). It may or may not be associated with an underlying disease such as an underactive thyroid or a parasitic infestation. She likely needs a course of antibiotics and medicated wash so a vet visit is best.March 1, 2021Was this question and answer helpful?

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