4491. Vet Case Study: Pug acne

"Pug acne" refers to a skin condition where a pug develops red bumps or pimples, typically on their muzzle and chin, caused by clogged hair follicles due to a buildup of oil and dead skin cells, similar to human acne; this is a common issue for pugs because of their facial folds which can trap dirt and bacteria, and is often considered a normal part of adolescence in dogs, but should be checked by a veterinarian if severe or persistent. 

Key points about pug acne:

Appearance:

Red bumps, pustules (pimples), blackheads, or whiteheads on the muzzle and chin. 

Causes:

Excess sebum (oil) production 

Dead skin cell buildup 

Hormonal fluctuations, especially during puberty 

Genetics 

Food or environmental allergies 

Friction from toys or scratching
 

Prevention:

Regular facial cleaning with a gentle cleanser 

Wipe down facial folds after eating 

Keep toys clean. No plastic feed bowls if allergic to plastic.

Maintain a healthy diet

 

Treatment:

Mild cases: Topical cleansing solutions, medicated wipes 

Moderate cases: Medicated shampoos with benzoyl peroxide 

Severe cases: Oral antibiotics prescribed by a veterinarian

 

When to see a vet:

If the acne is widespread or severe

If the pimples are causing discomfort or bleeding

If there are signs of infection (swelling, redness, pus)

UPDATE:

https://2010vets.blogspot.com/2025/03/4491-vet-case-study-pug-acne.html

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One Toa Payoh Vets case
 https://2010vets.blogspot.com/2015/04/1169-deep-pyoderma-in-young-female-pug.html

 

Myanmar case

Dr Thet Hmue Kyaw's case

Oral Cephalexin syrup
Vitamin C tablet
Omega3
Vitamin D3

Chlorhexidine diluted with NS for cleansing the area and neomycin oilment as topical.

Will review in next 10 days to see the response for this case.

For the other cases that I've seen, prognosis is good by that treatment. But if hygiene is not good, it will be recurrent again. Steroid may be needed in some case I've seen.