How to treat infected bulldog wrinkles?

Bulldogs’ signature wrinkles are part of what makes them so endearing, but those folds can trap moisture, dirt, and bacteria—leading to irritation and infection if not cared for properly. Recognizing the signs early and knowing how to treat them can keep your bulldog comfortable and prevent small issues from turning into bigger problems.​

First, learn to spot an infection. Redness, swelling, a foul odor, or discharge (yellow or greenish) are clear indicators. Your bulldog might scratch at their face more than usual or pull away when you touch their wrinkles—these are signs of discomfort. Don’t ignore these cues; infections can spread if left untreated, and some might require veterinary care.​

Start with gentle cleaning. Use a soft, damp cloth or a cotton ball soaked in a vet-recommended solution—avoid harsh soaps or alcohol, which can dry out their skin and worsen irritation. Gently wipe between each fold, making sure to reach the deepest parts where moisture hides. Pat the area dry thoroughly afterward; moisture is the main culprit, so leaving folds damp defeats the purpose.​

For mild infections, your vet might suggest an antifungal or antibacterial ointment. Apply a thin layer to the affected areas with clean fingers or a cotton swab, being careful not to get any in their eyes or nose. Follow the dosage and frequency instructions closely—overusing these products can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria on their skin.​

Keep the area dry throughout the day. After walks in the rain or playtime that gets them sweaty, take a minute to blot their wrinkles with a dry cloth. For bulldogs who love water, avoid letting them swim too often, and always dry their folds immediately after baths. Some owners use a blow dryer on the lowest, coolest setting to ensure every crevice is dry—just keep it a safe distance from their skin.​

Adjust their environment if needed. Bulldogs are prone to overheating, and excessive panting leads to more drooling, which wets their wrinkles. Keep your home cool with fans or AC during hot weather, and provide a elevated bed to help air circulate around their face when they rest. Less moisture in their environment means less chance for bacteria to thrive.​

Regular maintenance prevents infections from recurring. Make wrinkle cleaning part of your daily routine, especially after meals (bulldogs are messy eaters!) and outdoor activities. A quick check each morning and night takes just a minute but goes a long way. For extra protection, some owners use a thin layer of cornstarch (unscented) to absorb moisture—ask your vet if this is safe for your dog.​

Know when to call the vet. If the infection doesn’t improve within a day or two of at-home care, or if your bulldog has a fever, loss of appetite, or seems lethargic, it’s time for professional help. Severe infections might require oral antibiotics or stronger topical treatments, and your vet can rule out underlying issues like allergies that might be contributing to the problem.​

Be mindful of grooming habits. Avoid over-bathing, which can strip their skin of natural oils, making it more susceptible to irritation. When you do bathe them, use a mild, hypoallergenic shampoo and pay extra attention to rinsing thoroughly—leftover soap in their wrinkles is a common irritant. Pat (don’t rub) their face dry to avoid damaging sensitive skin.​

Remember, every bulldog is different. Some have deeper wrinkles that need more frequent care, while others might stay clean with minimal effort. Pay attention to what works for your pup—they’ll let you know when something feels off. With consistent, gentle care, their wrinkles can stay healthy, letting their sweet, squishy faces shine without discomfort.