Pododermatitis in Bulldogs (Paw Dermatitis)
Paw Allergy Pododermatitis in bulldogs and French bulldogs
Pododermatitis in bulldogs and French bulldogs is an inflammatory skin disease of the paw. It is a common dermatologic problem in English and French bulldogs and is typically associated with many underlying skin diseases.
Paw Allergy Pododermatitis Skin Disease in Bulldogs CAUSE
The most noticeable underlying conditions leading to paw allergy (pododermatitis) in bulldogs are:
- Idiopathic sterile granulomas
- Allergic dermatitis (food allergies and atopic dermatitis)
- Demodicosis (red skin mite)
- Skin-fold dermatitis.
All these conditions can lead to secondary bacterial and yeast overgrowth dermatitis.
Pododermatitis in Bulldogs and French Bulldogs DIAGNOSIS:
You should notice redness and swelling on your bulldog’s feet. You may also notice discharge and pus, emitting from the lesions.
Your bulldog and French bulldog puppy will often continuously lick the area in an effort to alleviate the discomfort and itchiness. Their saliva might cause reddish-brown staining in the fur surrounding the inflamed area. Occasionally, scabs, blisters, nodules, and hair loss can be found in the surrounding tissue of the infected area.
When pain is intense, your bulldog might be noticeably limping or/and reluctent to walk.
Paw Allergy Pododermatitis in Bulldogs and French Bulldogs TREATMENT:
The recommended course of treatment will vary depending on the type and cause of the pododermatitis. For instance, allergic and/or immune-related pododermatitis cannot always be cured, but when properly treated, the disease can be controlled and managed.
The best course of action is to perform daily inspections of their paws, including the surfaces between their toes. Then, follow my skin fold dermatitis bulldog maintenance instructions which include daily wiping with my “V4B XL Bully Skin Fold Nose-Paw-Tail-Vaginal wipes”, antiseptic shampoo, and rinse-free medicated gels.
You should also consider including therapeutic supplements to help control inflammation and pain like my V4B Bulldog Fish Oil EFA Skin-Immune-Joint and V4B Bully Comfort Plus Formula.
Dr. Kraemer’s V4B Pododermatitis in Bulldogs TIPS & WARNINGS:
TIP #1 TESTS:
If you notice any of these symptoms, or it appears that your dog is favoring a certain foot regularly, you should examine the area and consult your veterinarian. For the most part, your veterinarian should be able to determine the problem based on a site examination, but occasionally, other tests like a cytological exam, a bacterial culture, skin scrapings, blood and urine tests, and biopsies will be required.
TIP #2 LASER & SCT:
I have treated some severe cases of paw dermatitis in bulldogs who responded poorly to traditional allergy medication (steroids and other immune suppressants) with cold laser therapy and/or stem cell therapy.
TIP #3 RX :
Seasonal versus non-seasonal, age of onset, and response to previous therapy can help narrow the differential diagnosis. Positive responses to corticosteroids, cyclosporines, and APOQUEL may suggest allergies.
Pododermatitis in Bulldogs and French Bulldogs WARNINGS:
Warning #1 SCAR:
If left untreated, the itching and pain will increase and scar tissue can build up on the foot and paw area. The scar tissue could impede healing and increase the chances of re-occurrence.
Warning #2 YEAST:
Often, the primary underlying condition (allergies) ends up leading to a secondary yeast, or bacterial infection (pyoderma and Malassezia).
Warning #4 INFECTION:
Bacterial infections usually require 6 weeks or more of antibiotics depending on the results of a culture and sensitivity test (especially given the increasing prevalence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococci “MRSP”).
An Ounce Of PREVENTION Is Worth A Pound Of CURE
*This guide was compiled courtesy of Dr. Kraemer, a “must-read” manual for any current or future bully owner