Wrinkles in dogs are often misinterpreted as a sign of aging. However, some dog breeds like bulldogs have wrinkled body type by nature. Bulldogs belong to the brachycephalic dog category and require consistent care. These breeds are known for its likeness to stay clean and thus, caring for bulldog skin and wrinkles is considered an essentiality.  The bulldog skin or wrinkle can present itself in various forms like allergies, acne, tear stains etc. Understanding the severity of each of these issues is critical for early detection and treatment.

Bulldog allergies

Bulldog allergies are commonly induced when the immune system over reacts to any foreign substance found in its diet or environment.  A bee sting, flea bite, hazardous gas intake etc can all lead to allergic reaction in bulldogs; the response to each of these allergens can vary from minor to severe. For instance, a flea bite can induce a minor allergic reaction when compared to a snake bite or flea sting. Flea bite allergies are most common in bulldogs and are characterized by severe itching, scratching, hot spots and hair loss. Bulldogs are also known to develop allergic reaction to food that they have been fed for longer durations. Food allergies are characterized by symptoms like chronic diarrhea, excessive tear stains, smelly skin, hot spots etc.

Bulldog acne

Acne is one of the common skin issues faced by bulldogs. Dirt entering the skin pores of bulldogs causes skin inflammation, which leads to acne. Bulldog puppies between 3 to 12 months old are usually vulnerable to acne. Dogs that have oily skin are more susceptible to acne and the infection mainly affects body part like chin, groin area and the lips. Bathing your dog twice a day with medicated shampoo containing 3% Benzoyl Peroxide or using Betadine and other antibiotic ointments is ideal means to treat bulldog acne.

Bulldog Tear Stains

Tear stains mainly indicates irregularities in health and dietary patterns. The condition causes the hair on your dog’s facial area, especially around the eyes to stay damp, with time; this area gets turned into breeding place for bacteria and yeast. The condition when left untreated causes, itching and excessive tearing that later leads to staining.  Today, we even have surgeries to enlarge the eye duct of bulldogs so as to increase the capacity to hold tear. Adding cider vinegar to your bulldog’s drinking water is an ideal strategy to prevent new tear stains.

These are the common skin/wrinkle problems faced by almost all the bulldog breeds. Keeping your bulldog clean is the key to keeping all the pertinent skin or wrinkle issues at bay. Groom your bulldog at least thrice a week and it is recommended to consult a veterinarian prior to starting the treatment for bulldog skin issues post detection.