🧼 Vet Guide 2025: Muzzle Folliculitis and Furunculosis (Chin Acne) in Dogs – Causes, Treatment & Care 🐶

By Dr Duncan Houston, BVSc

Have you noticed red bumps or pimples on your dog’s chin or muzzle? It might be muzzle folliculitis and furunculosis—also known as chin or muzzle acne. This condition is especially common in young, short-coated dogs and can look alarming, but with proper care, it’s usually very manageable. In this 2025 vet guide, I’ll explain what causes muzzle acne, how it’s diagnosed, and how to treat it safely and effectively. 🐾

🔍 What Is Muzzle Folliculitis and Furunculosis?

This condition refers to inflammation of the hair follicles (folliculitis) and the deeper skin layers (furunculosis) on the chin and lips. It’s often triggered by irritation or trauma, such as rubbing the chin on toys or hard surfaces, or rough play with other dogs. 🧠

📍 Where It Appears:

• Under the chin
• Around the lips
• Sometimes extending to the lower jaw or muzzle

🟤 Common Symptoms:

• Red bumps or papules
• Pustules or “pimples”
• Hair loss around affected areas
• Itching or rubbing the chin on furniture

🐕 Breeds Most Affected

This condition is especially common in:

• Boxers
• Bulldogs
• Dobermans
• Short-haired breeds like Great Danes and Pointers

These breeds often have short, stiff whiskers that can break and embed in the skin, triggering inflammation. 📌

🧪 Diagnosing Chin Acne

Your veterinarian will likely perform a physical exam and may take skin samples for analysis. Tests may include:

• 🔬 Cytology: To look for bacteria, yeast, or inflammatory cells under the microscope
• 🧫 Skin culture: In severe or chronic cases, to identify resistant bacterial strains
• 🔍 Scraping or pluck tests: To rule out parasites like Demodex mites or fungal causes like ringworm

💊 Treatment Options

1️⃣ Topical Therapy

• 🧴 Antibacterial wipes or gels (chlorhexidine, benzoyl peroxide)
• 💊 Antibiotic creams for mild infections
• 🧼 Medicated shampoos for cleansing the area

2️⃣ Oral Medications

• 💊 Oral antibiotics for deeper or widespread infections
• 🧘 Anti-inflammatories or allergy meds if itching is severe

⚠️ Avoid human acne treatments (like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide creams), as they may be too harsh or toxic if licked. ❌

📋 Addressing the Root Cause

Chin acne is often secondary to other conditions such as:

• 🌿 Environmental allergies (atopy)
• 🍽️ Food allergies
• 🧼 Poor hygiene or excessive moisture

Allergy management, better chin cleaning, and reducing trauma (e.g., switching to ceramic food bowls) may reduce recurrences. ✅

🛡️ Prevention Tips

• 🧽 Wipe your dog’s muzzle after meals
• 🍽️ Use stainless steel or ceramic bowls—avoid plastic
• 🛁 Bathe regularly with vet-approved skin cleansers
• 🧴 Apply topical disinfectants during allergy flare-ups

Consider allergy testing or a food trial if your dog has frequent flare-ups. 🧪

📲 Ask A Vet for Skin Help

Unsure if your dog’s chin bumps are acne or something more serious? Connect with AskAVet.com for fast, expert guidance. 🐶

With the Ask A Vet App, you can:

• 📸 Send pictures of bumps or infected areas
• 💬 Get product recommendations for cleaning or treatment
• 📅 Receive alerts for rechecks and preventative care

📝 Final Thoughts

Muzzle folliculitis is uncomfortable, but typically easy to manage with the right approach. Early cleaning, gentle treatment, and avoiding harsh human products go a long way. If you need help or want a second opinion, reach out to Ask A Vet anytime. Let’s get that chin clear and comfy again. 🐾🧼