Skincare problems in bulldogs is an extremely common occurrence. As a breed, bulldogs are far more susceptible too suffering from health conditions than other dog breeds - and skin conditions are the top of the list of things your bulldog is likely to suffer from in its lifetime.
Common skin conditions that bulldogs suffer from
Hot spots
Hot spots on bulldogs, also known as moist dermatitis, are a painful condition where the skin becomes reddened, moist, and inflamed, usually as a result of allergies, an infection, parasites, or moisture trapped within the coat. Other symptoms of hotspots include licking, scratching, biting, and discharge of pus and fluids. If not treated properly, hot spots can result in severely damaged skin, so it’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms, and act quickly to contact your veterinarian should any of them present themselves.
Hot spots on bulldogs are normally caused by chewing, licking, and scratching of an affected area. This trauma to the dog’s skin then causes inflammation and even secondary infections. This then creates a perpetual cycle of itching and scratching since the bacterial infection is another irritant. Due to this, any condition that results in your dog itching can lead to hot spots
For more information on hot spot, read our in-depth guide on hot spots and how to treat them.
Interdigital Cysts
Interdigital cysts are large bumps, or nodules, on a bulldogs paw between their toes. Interdigital cysts usually appear as red nodules filled with blood and/or pus. They are most commonly found on the front paws. Dogs may limp from the pain, especially when walking on uneven surfaces, or lick or chew at their paws.
Interdigital cysts are caused by irritation or injury to the haired skin of the paws, which can cause “plugged,” or dilated, hair follicles. These dilated follicles then develop into nodules that are prone to rupture, thus causing more irritation, and skin infections as well.
Hair Loss
Although bulldogs are a dog breed that shed their fur, they aren't known as a breed that shed excessively. So if you are noticing that your bulldog has increased hair loss, then there is likely that it is caused by a skin condition.
There are several common reasons in why your English Bulldog may have bald patches. The majority of these are completely harmless however some of the reasons should be a cause for concern. The main reasons for hair loss in bulldogs are:
Allergies
Seasonal Flank Alopecia
Black Hair Follicular Dysplasia
Dry & Flakey Skin
All dogs love a good scratch, however if you have noticed that your dog is scratching excessively, then it is likely that they are suffering from dry & flakey skin.
There are many potential causes that can lead to your bulldog having dry & flakey skin, however the most common causes are:
Fleas
Skin allergies
Mites and lice
Skin infections
Hotspots
Ringworm
Make sure you read our guide on home remedies to help your bulldog with itchy skin.
Bacterial or Yeast Infections
Yeast and bacterial infections are common in bulldogs. Bulldogs face wrinkles and tail pockets are yeast and bacteria breading grounds, and without proper care, can become infected quickly.
Conclusion
There are many skin conditions that your bulldog may end up suffering from, and as a dog breed, they are more likely to suffer from skin conditions - however with the correct care you can prevent and cure many of the issues.