Dog's Black Pustules: Foliкулitis or Not?

Part 1: What Are Those Black Dots on a Dog's Body That Can Be Squeezed Out?

When pet owners spot small black dots on their dogs, their immediate thought might be folliculitis. However, there are actually two possible reasons why a dog's black dots can be squeezed out:

1. The dog might have fleas. Fleas lay black eggs on the skin, which can be mistaken for black dots on the follicles.

2. If the black dots on the follicles can be squeezed out, it indicates that the follicles are damaged or inflamed. You can clean the dog with soap and water. If there are widespread black dots on the dog's body, it's important to seek veterinary care promptly.

Part 2: Symptoms of Fleas on Dogs

1. If a dog has fleas, besides finding black insects in the fur, you may also notice flea feces, which are dark, brown, and irregularly shaped particles.

2. Flea bites can cause the dog to become restless and anxious. You can part the dog's fur to check for white eggs and adult fleas, which can be easily extracted. Dogs may also frequently scratch themselves, resulting in duller fur and a lack of energy.

Part 3: Symptoms of Folliculitis in Dogs

1. Folliculitis primarily affects the dog's neck, inguinal area, and abdomen due to follicle blockage. The affected skin may show small black dots, hyperpigmentation, swelling, scaly dandruff, and even scabs in some cases.

2. The symptoms of folliculitis can vary depending on the cause, such as skin darkening and scaling in some cases, or redness and noticeable secretions in the follicles, resembling blackheads and whiteheads.

Part 4: Treatment Methods

1. If the dog has fleas, the most crucial step is to eliminate the fleas. You can use Proban's nonpyrethroid spoton treatment for external parasites. This medication can kill fleas, lice, mites, and other external parasites, and it quickly penetrates the skin, so you don't have to worry about the dog getting wet and affecting the efficacy of the medication.

2. If the dog has folliculitis, the treatment process is more complex. Pet owners need to visit a veterinary clinic to determine the cause of the folliculitis, which may include fungal, bacterial, or parasitic infections. Once the cause is identified, treatment can begin accordingly. For example, if the dog has a bacterial folliculitis, it is recommended to use cefadroxil tablets, Furocen skin spray, and zinc oxide ointment in combination. For folliculitis caused by mites, it is necessary to deworm first, and then treat the skin symptoms.

So, when you find black dots on your dog that can be squeezed out, don't panic too quickly. It might just be fleas. Although treating fleas is relatively simple, it's important not to underestimate the threat they pose, as these parasites can also jump to humans, posing a significant risk.

For more questions, please consult an online veterinary doctor in a timely manner!