Dog Acne & How to Get Rid of It

Did you know that dogs can get the occasional pimple, especially around the chin and lips? However, Most cases of dog acne are harmless and very manageable.

What Is Dog Acne and Why Does It Happen?

Dog acne is more common than many pet parents realize. It often shows up as red bumps or small pustules, usually on the chin, lips, or muzzle. While it’s typically a mild condition, it can become uncomfortable or even lead to infection if left untreated.

Some common causes include:

• Clogged pores from oil, dirt, or dead skin.
• Bacterial infections that irritate the skin.
• Allergies or hormonal changes, especially in younger pups.
• Poor hygiene or contact with irritating materials like plastic food bowls.

Spotting the Signs of Canine Acne

Most of the time, dog acne is easy to spot once you know what to look for:

• Small red or white bumps around the chin or lips 
• Swelling or tenderness in those areas
• Your dog may rub their face or act like something’s bothering them

How to Treat Dog Acne Gently and Effectively

If your dog has a few spots, don’t panic — there are several safe and effective ways to treat dog acne and help their skin heal.

Try This at Home:

• Wash the area gently with a vet-approved cleanser like a benzoyl peroxide wash (formulated for dogs only).
• Keep the area clean and dry, especially after meals.
  Switch to stainless steel or ceramic bowls to reduce bacteria buildup.

Natural Options:

• A diluted apple cider vinegar rinse (followed by a rinse with plain water) may help reduce bacteria.
  Aloe vera gel (pure and additive-free) can calm irritated skin.

When to Call the Vet:

• If the acne is oozing or worsening
  If your dog is scratching or rubbing constantly
  If there are signs of infection, like pus or a bad smell

Preventing Dog Pimples: Tips for Clearer Skin

A few small changes can make a big difference in keeping your pup’s skin clear and healthy:

• Wipe your dog’s face daily, especially after eating or playing outside.
• Wash bedding and toys regularly to keep bacteria at bay.
• Brush your dog’s coat often to distribute natural oils and remove debris.
  Feed a balanced, nutrient-rich diet that supports skin health (omega-3 supplements can help too!).

Can Dogs Get Pimples on Their Lips?

Yes, and it’s more common than you might think! Lip pimples often happen for the same reasons as chin acne: bacteria, clogged pores, or irritation from licking. Keeping the area clean and avoiding harsh cleaners is key.

For More Serious Breakouts: Trust the Pros

In some cases, especially when acne is chronic or severe, professional care is the best route. Your vet may suggest:

• Skin scrapings or allergy tests to find the root cause
• Prescription treatments to reduce inflammation or fight bacteria
• Long-term management plans to keep your dog comfortable

How Can Pet Insurance Help You if Your Dog Needs Treatment?

Pet insurance can be a valuable tool in managing the costs of treating a dog’s veterinary expenses. By having a pet insurance policy in place, you can have peace of mind knowing that you can provide medical care for your furry companion without worrying about the financial burden. Pet insurance can help cover the costs of veterinary consultations, diagnostic tests, medications, and even specialized treatments if required.

Reimbursement

This method is the most common for pet insurance companies. You pay out of pocket for the veterinarian bill, and then the insurance company reimburses you for what’s covered under the insurance plan. The steps look like this.

• You pay the vet bill after your dog’s visit.
• You fill out the pet insurance claim form.
• Submit the claim form and other required documentation to the insurer. 
• After the claim is approved, you will be reimbursed for eligible expenses. 

What Does Odie Pet Insurance Cover?

Pet insurance covers various veterinary expenses, providing financial protection and peace of mind for pet owners. Here are the details of the coverage options offered by Odie Pet Insurance:

Illness & Injury Plan

The Illness & Injury Plan is an all-inclusive insurance plan designed to cover a wide range of medical needs for your pet. This plan includes comprehensive coverage for various illnesses, injuries, and veterinary services. Some of the covered items include:

• Veterinary exams and consultations
• Diagnostics (e.g., X-rays, lab tests)
• Prescribed medications
• Surgeries and hospitalization
• Rehabilitation, acupuncture, or chiropractic treatments
• Medically necessary supplies
• Euthanasia and cremation

The Wellness Plan

The Wellness Plan is a monthly membership that focuses on preventive care and covers routine veterinary services.

• Provides reimbursements for routine care items such as wellness visits (exams and vaccines), testing and parasite prevention, dental cleanings and at-home dental care, vitamins, supplements, and more
• Through Odie’s partnership with Petivity, a leader in smart pet products and proactive care, Wellness Plan members can also receive reimbursements for Petivity devices and health kits, as well as eligible Purina food and supplements.
• Total reimbursement up to $700 per year.