Pyoderma is a bacterial infection that causes skin inflammation and/or lesions.

Pyoderma typically appears as a rash on your dog’s skin. Hair loss, blisters, lesions and puss-filled pimples may follow in more severe cases.

Pyoderma often develops secondarily to an underlying skin condition or trauma.

Your vet will usually be able to make a diagnosis after performing a physical examination and doing routine bloodwork. However, sometimes a biopsy may be done to rule out other diseases.

Pyoderma can be treated with antibiotics and medicated shampoos.

The best method of prevention is to prevent underlying skin conditions.

In most cases, humans cannot get pyoderma from an afflicted dog. However, there are certain pyoderma-causing bacteria that can be transmitted from dogs to humans. Thus, it is wise to ask the vet and your healthcare professional about the possibility of infection if your dog is suffering from pyoderma.