What causes sores around the dog's mouth

When we interact intimately with dogs, we suddenly notice red and swollen sores on the corners of their mouths or scabs on their chins. The heart wrenching feeling is indescribable. These seemingly insignificant skin problems may be a red light for a dog's health. As owners, we need to arm ourselves with professional knowledge and accompany our dogs through this uncomfortable time with warm care.

The abnormal skin around a dog's mouth is often the result of multiple factors working together. One of the most common reasons is bacterial or fungal infection. When dogs explore the world with a moist nose, the hair around their mouth and nose is prone to absorbing dust and pathogens, especially in humid environments where bacteria such as Staphylococcus can multiply in large numbers, leading to folliculitis or pyoderma. I once treated a Golden Retriever touring dog, who had been playing in the water by the lake for a long time and had recurrent ulcerative lesions on his chin. Eventually, he was diagnosed with drug-resistant Staphylococcus infection through bacterial culture and fully recovered after six weeks of antibiotic treatment.

Allergic reactions are also significant triggers that cannot be ignored. Certain ingredients in food (such as beef and dairy products), pollen and dust mites in the environment, and even chemical additives in low-quality dog food can all cause contact dermatitis in dogs. A customer's Pomeranian dog experiences lip swelling and blisters every spring. After allergen testing, it was found to be allergic to poplar pollen. After switching to a low sensitivity prescription food and taking antihistamines, the symptoms significantly improved.

Traumatic factors are also common. Dogs may scratch their oral mucosa when biting hard objects, be pricked at the corners of their mouth by sharp plants while playing outdoors, and even wear tight collars that rub against their skin, all of which can lead to local infections. I once treated a stray cat bitten poodle, and the wound was not treated in time, causing cellulitis, which ultimately required surgical debridement.

Oral diseases are often the hidden culprits. Gum redness, swelling, and bleeding caused by periodontal disease, salivary gland inflammation caused by tartar stimulation, and even purulent secretions caused by dental caries can all be manifested through the skin around the mouth. There was once an elderly Jingba dog who suffered from severe dental calculus leading to a mandibular abscess, which ruptured and formed a fistula. Eventually, the problem had to be completely resolved by removing all teeth.

Some systemic diseases can also be reflected on the skin around the mouth. Autoimmune diseases such as pemphigus can lead to blisters and erosion on the lips. diabetes dogs are often accompanied by intractable angular stomatitis, while tumor lesions (such as squamous cell carcinoma) are manifested as persistent ulcers. In these situations, differential diagnosis must be made through methods such as blood tests and skin biopsies.

What can we do when we discover a dog's mouth circumference ulcer? Firstly, it is necessary to maintain local cleanliness and dryness. Gently wipe the affected area with physiological saline to remove purulent secretions, and then apply a pet specific ointment containing antibiotics. It should be noted that antifungal drugs such as Dakning used by humans may be toxic to dogs and cats, and veterinary guidance must be strictly followed.

Adjusting dietary structure is also important. For dogs suspected of having food allergies, they should try low sensitivity prescription foods from a single protein source, such as duck or deer meat formulas, and avoid adding artificial colors and preservatives. Meanwhile, supplementing with Omega-3 fatty acids (such as fish oil) can help alleviate skin inflammation reactions.

Environmental management cannot be ignored. Regularly trim hair that is too long around the mouth to avoid food residue accumulation; Use stainless steel or ceramic food bowls (to avoid allergies caused by plastic); Clean your mouth and nose promptly after outdoor activities. For dogs with a habit of licking and biting, Elizabeth rings can be worn to prevent further damage.

Timely medical treatment is crucial. If the ulcer does not improve within 72 hours and symptoms such as widespread spread, fever, and enlarged lymph nodes appear, immediate medical attention must be sought. Veterinarians will conduct cytological examinations, bacterial cultures, or drug sensitivity tests based on the situation to develop personalized treatment plans. Remember to bring your dog's recent diet and medication history, which will greatly improve diagnostic efficiency.

Prevention is always better than cure. Brush your dog's teeth with pet specific toothpaste every day and regularly check their oral health; Choose toys suitable for the breed of dog and avoid excessive biting on hard objects; Increase the frequency of skin care in rainy or wet seasons, and use pet specific lipstick to protect lips. These seemingly trivial daily care tasks are actually the first line of defense for protecting the health of dogs.

When we see dogs reducing their food intake and avoiding touch due to discomfort, the pain is indescribable. But please believe that as long as we maintain patience, use scientific methods and warm companionship, most skin problems around the mouth can be effectively controlled. The gentle comfort when applying ointment and the careful preparation when adjusting diet are the best responses to this trust. May all dogs have a healthy smile and continue to explore this world full of love with their moist noses.