Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My puppy has pus-filled pimples on belly. When to see a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Female | unspayed | 2 months and 18 days old | 25 lbs

My dog is a 12 week old German Shepherd and she has puss-filled pimples on her belly. Is that something I should be concerned about or is it something that will go away in a few days?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Heidi DVM, CVA, CCRT, CVTP, CVSMT, CVCH

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist, Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner

Published on September 25th, 2017

Congratulations on your new puppy! We commonly see a skin infection in puppies that we call "puppy pyoderma". It is a skin infection of the normal bacteria on a puppy's skin. Every case is different. Sometimes we need to treat them with topical wipes or shampoos, and sometimes we prescribe oral antibiotics. I would recommend having your vet evaluate Emma and decide on the right treatment plan for her. I have included a link to general pyodermas below. The difference in a puppy pyoderma is that there is not normally an underlying cause that we need to find. https://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=1571 I hope that was helpful. Thanks for using PetCoach.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 29th, 2017

    This looks like a case of pyoderma which is like human acne. It can be caused due to infection or sometimes rare autoimmune disorders. It is likely a bacterial infection. It can be treated and controlled with medicated shampoo and in some cases will require a course of antibiotics.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu has a white bump in its fur. Should I take my pet to the vet?
Worried about your pet degu's white pustule? A certified vet discusses this potential skin infection, explains why not to pop it, and guides your next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My rat is losing weight and has breathing issues. What should I do?
Dambo's weight loss, rough breathing, and mucus worry you? A Petco veterinarian addresses these concerning symptoms and recommends urgent professional care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dog's matted fur bled after cutting. Should I take him to the vet?
Did your pet bleed after matted fur removal? A trusted vet explains potential infection, wound care, and why immediate veterinary attention is crucial for healing.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Dog licking paws, fur loss, and jaw wound: Could it be allergies?
Is your Shih-Tzu crossbreed biting his feet, losing fur, or has a wound? A trusted vet explains these classic allergy signs and advises on treatments like Apoquel or medicated shampoo.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Is there a chart for dog food protein biological value and digestibility?
Dog food protein's biological value & digestibility: A vet explains why data is complex. Learn to judge quality by company reputation and your dog's health.
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored