Antibacterial Cream for Dogs: Safe Uses, Risks & When You Need a Vet
Is antibacterial cream safe for dogs? Learn which OTC topical antibiotics work, toxic ingredients to avoid, proper wound care steps, and when to see a vet.
What Is Antibacterial Cream for Dogs and When Is It Appropriate?
Antibacterial cream for dogs refers to topical antibiotic ointments applied directly to minor skin wounds, scrapes, and superficial infections to prevent or treat bacterial colonization. These products typically contain active ingredients like neomycin, bacitracin, or polymyxin B — the same compounds found in human first-aid products such as Neosporin. According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, topical antibacterials are a mainstay of superficial wound management in veterinary medicine, but their safety profile changes significantly when the patient is a dog who may lick, ingest, or further irritate the treated area.
The core challenge with antibacterial cream for dogs is not whether the active ingredients kill bacteria — they generally do. The challenge is that dogs interact with topical treatments differently than humans. They lick wounds. They scratch at ointments. Their skin pH (approximately 6.2–7.4) differs from human skin (4.5–5.5), which affects how products absorb and whether they disrupt the natural skin barrier. Additionally, some formulations contain additives — pain relievers, steroids, or preservatives — that are outright toxic to canines.
This guide covers exactly which antibacterial creams are safe for canine use, the conditions they can manage at home, the red flags that require veterinary intervention, and the true cost of treating skin infections that have progressed beyond what a tube of ointment can fix.
Canine Skin Infections: Understanding What Antibacterial Cream Actually Treats
To use antibacterial cream effectively, you need to understand what it can and cannot address. Dogs develop several categories of skin conditions, and topical antibiotics only target a narrow slice of them.
What Topical Antibacterial Cream Can Manage
- Superficial abrasions: Minor scrapes from fences, bushes, or rough play where the epidermis is broken but the dermis is intact
- Small lacerations: Clean cuts less than 1 inch (2.5 cm) that are not gaping and have stopped bleeding
- Hot spots (acute moist dermatitis) — early stage: Localized, self-inflicted skin irritation that has just begun, before secondary bacterial overgrowth becomes severe
- Superficial bacterial folliculitis: Mild bacterial colonization of hair follicles, often appearing as small red bumps or pustules
- Post-surgical incision sites: Only when specifically directed by your veterinarian as part of a post-op care protocol
What Antibacterial Cream Cannot Treat
- Deep puncture wounds: These seal at the surface while trapping bacteria beneath — ointment cannot reach the infection source
- Fungal infections (ringworm, yeast dermatitis): Antibacterial agents have zero efficacy against fungal organisms
- Allergic dermatitis: Environmental or food allergies driving skin inflammation require allergen management, not antibiotics
- Parasitic skin disease: Mange (Demodex, Sarcoptes), flea allergy dermatitis need antiparasitic treatment
- Systemic infections: Bacteria in the bloodstream or deep tissue abscesses require oral or injectable antibiotics
Symptoms Checklist: Identifying Skin Infections by Severity
Recognizing the stage of your dog's skin condition determines whether antibacterial cream is sufficient or whether you need to schedule a veterinary appointment. Use this severity-based checklist to assess the situation.
| Severity Level | Symptoms | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|
| Early (Home Care May Be Appropriate) |
• Small superficial scrape or cut (<1 inch) • Mild redness limited to wound edges • No discharge or only clear serous fluid • Dog is not excessively licking or scratching • Normal appetite and energy level • No foul odor from the area |
Clean wound, apply pet-safe antibacterial cream, monitor 48–72 hours. Use an Elizabethan collar to prevent licking. |
| Moderate (Schedule Vet Visit Within 24–48 Hours) |
• Wound larger than 1 inch or gaping edges • Yellow or green discharge (purulent exudate) • Spreading redness beyond wound margins • Warmth and swelling around the site • Dog repeatedly licks or chews the area • Mild hair loss surrounding the wound • Crusting or scabbing that reopens |
Veterinary evaluation needed. May require oral antibiotics, wound debridement, or prescription-strength topical treatment. |
| Advanced (Urgent Veterinary Care) |
• Foul-smelling discharge or necrotic tissue • Fever (rectal temperature >103.5°F / 39.7°C) • Lethargy, reduced appetite, or vomiting • Rapidly expanding red or dark discoloration • Deep puncture wound or bite wound • Wound on face, near eyes, or on genitals • Signs of pain: whimpering, flinching, guarding • Multiple lesions or spreading hot spots |
Seek immediate veterinary attention. Deep infections, abscesses, and systemic involvement require professional intervention. Do not rely on OTC cream alone. |
Risk Factors: Which Dogs Are Most Vulnerable to Skin Infections?
Key Risk Factors for Canine Bacterial Skin Infections
Breed Predisposition: Dogs with skin folds are at significantly higher risk. English Bulldogs, Shar-Peis, Pugs, Bloodhounds, and Cocker Spaniels develop intertrigo (skin fold dermatitis) where moisture and bacteria become trapped in facial, lip, tail-base, or vulvar folds. German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers show higher rates of pyoderma and hot spots due to their dense double coats.
Age: Puppies under 18 months have immature immune responses, making them more susceptible to superficial bacterial infections like impetigo. Senior dogs (8+ years) often have declining immune function and may have comorbidities like Cushing's disease or hypothyroidism that compromise skin health.
Weight: Overweight and obese dogs (body condition score 7–9 on the 9-point scale) develop deeper skin folds and have reduced grooming ability, creating environments where bacterial overgrowth thrives.
Environmental Factors: Dogs in humid climates (southeastern US, Gulf Coast) face higher infection rates due to persistent moisture on skin. Frequent swimmers — especially breeds like Labrador Retrievers — are prone to moisture-related dermatitis. Dogs in multi-pet households with rough play sustain more minor wounds that can become infected.
Underlying Conditions: According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, most recurrent pyoderma cases have an underlying cause — allergic skin disease (atopic dermatitis), endocrine disorders (hypothyroidism, hyperadrenocorticism), or immune-mediated conditions that compromise the skin barrier.
Genetics: Certain lines within predisposed breeds carry hereditary susceptibility to atopic dermatitis, which in turn drives secondary bacterial infections. West Highland White Terriers and Boxers have well-documented genetic predisposition to skin barrier dysfunction.
Safe vs. Unsafe Antibacterial Products for Dogs
Not all antibacterial creams are created equal when it comes to canine safety. Here is a breakdown of what is generally safe, what requires caution, and what you should never apply to your dog's skin.
| Product / Ingredient | Safety for Dogs | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Triple antibiotic ointment (bacitracin, neomycin, polymyxin B) — plain formulation | Generally Safe | The standard "Neosporin-type" ointment without added pain relievers is the most widely recommended OTC option. Apply a thin layer. Neomycin sensitivity can occur in some dogs — discontinue if redness worsens. |
| Veterinary-specific silver sulfadiazine cream (1%) | Safe (Prescription) | Prescription-only. Excellent for burn wounds and more serious superficial infections. Your vet may dispense this for home use. |
| Medical-grade Manuka honey (sterilized) | Safe | Natural antibacterial with demonstrated efficacy against MRSA and Pseudomonas in veterinary wound studies. Must be medical-grade (sterilized, UMF 10+), not grocery-store honey. |
| Chlorhexidine-based sprays/wipes (2–4% solution) | Safe | Not a cream, but a first-line topical antiseptic in veterinary dermatology. Products like Vetmedin Chlorhexidine Spray or Duoxo S3 are widely used. Excellent for wound cleaning before ointment application. |
| Triple antibiotic + pain relief (Neosporin with Pramoxine, or "Plus" versions) | Use Caution | Pramoxine is generally tolerated topically but can cause GI upset if licked off in quantity. Prefer the plain formulation. If using a pain-relief version, an Elizabethan collar is mandatory. |
| Hydrocortisone cream (OTC 1%) | Use Caution | Not an antibacterial — it's a steroid. Can reduce itching but suppresses local immune response, potentially worsening bacterial infections. Never use on open wounds without vet direction. |
| Products containing zinc oxide (Desitin, diaper rash creams) | TOXIC — Do Not Use | Zinc oxide causes zinc toxicosis when ingested. Dogs will lick it off. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, hemolysis (red blood cell destruction), and in severe cases, organ failure. ASPCA Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 if ingested. |
| Mupirocin ointment (human prescription) | Vet-Directed Only | Used in veterinary dermatology for localized infections, but should only be applied under veterinary guidance. Inappropriate use contributes to antibiotic resistance. |
| Hydrogen peroxide (3%) | Avoid | Damages healthy tissue and delays wound healing. While commonly used for initial wound cleaning by owners, veterinary dermatologists recommend against repeated use. Chlorhexidine is a superior alternative. |
| Tea tree oil / Melaleuca products | TOXIC — Do Not Use | Concentrated tea tree oil is toxic to dogs. Even diluted, it can cause skin irritation, lethargy, weakness, incoordination, and tremors if absorbed or licked. ASPCA Poison Control: (888) 426-4435. |
How Veterinarians Diagnose Skin Infections That Need More Than OTC Cream
When home treatment with antibacterial cream fails to improve a wound within 48–72 hours, or when symptoms present at the moderate-to-advanced level, your veterinarian will follow a structured diagnostic process. Understanding this process helps you prepare for the visit and budget accordingly.
Typical Diagnostic Workflow
Step 1: Physical Examination & History ($50–$85 exam fee)
Your vet will assess the wound's size, depth, location, and surrounding tissue. They will ask about onset timeline, your dog's licking behavior, any products you've already applied, and vaccination history (especially rabies status for bite wounds).
Step 2: Cytology — Skin Impression Smear ($45–$90)
A glass slide is pressed against the affected area or a sample is collected with a cotton swab, then stained and examined under a microscope. This reveals whether bacteria (cocci vs. rods), yeast (Malassezia), or inflammatory cells are present. Results are typically available within 15 minutes during the appointment.
Step 3: Bacterial Culture & Sensitivity ($85–$180)
Indicated for recurrent infections, infections that fail initial antibiotic therapy, or when rod-shaped bacteria are seen on cytology (higher risk of resistant organisms like Pseudomonas or MRSP — methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius). A swab is sent to a laboratory; results take 48–72 hours. The sensitivity panel identifies exactly which antibiotics will be effective.
Step 4: Skin Scraping ($40–$65)
Performed if parasitic infection (Demodex or Sarcoptes mites) is suspected as the underlying cause. A scalpel blade is used to scrape superficial skin layers, which are then examined microscopically.
Step 5: Blood Work — CBC & Chemistry Panel ($120–$250)
Recommended for recurrent or severe infections to screen for underlying endocrine disease (hypothyroidism, Cushing's disease) or immune compromise. A complete blood count reveals whether infection has become systemic (elevated white blood cell count).
Step 6: Skin Biopsy ($200–$450 including lab fees)
Reserved for chronic, non-responsive cases or when autoimmune skin disease, neoplasia, or deep fungal infection is suspected. A small tissue sample is collected under local anesthesia and sent to a veterinary dermatopathologist.
Total diagnostic cost range: A straightforward superficial infection may require only the exam and cytology ($95–$175). A complex, recurrent case with culture, blood work, and biopsy can reach $500–$975 before treatment begins.
Treatment Options: From OTC Cream to Prescription Intervention
The treatment pathway depends entirely on the diagnosis. Here is how options compare across severity levels.
| Treatment | Best For | Typical Duration | Estimated Cost | Success Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OTC triple antibiotic ointment | Minor abrasions, small clean cuts, early hot spots | 5–7 days, applied 2–3x daily | $5–$12 (tube) | High for truly minor wounds; not studied in controlled canine trials |
| Prescription topical (silver sulfadiazine, mupirocin) | Moderate superficial infections, burn wounds, localized pyoderma | 7–14 days | $20–$55 | High when organism is susceptible per culture |
| Oral antibiotics (cephalexin, amoxicillin-clavulanate, clindamycin) | Deep pyoderma, widespread infection, wounds with systemic involvement | 21–42 days (minimum 7 days beyond clinical resolution per Merck Veterinary Manual) | $20–$80 depending on drug and dog size | 85–95% when guided by culture & sensitivity |
| Medicated shampoos & sprays (chlorhexidine 2–4%, benzoyl peroxide) | Generalized superficial pyoderma, adjunct to oral antibiotics, skin fold maintenance | 2–3x weekly bathing for 4–8 weeks | $15–$35 per bottle | Good as adjunct therapy; reduces oral antibiotic duration |
| Surgical debridement & drainage | Abscesses, deep infected wounds, necrotic tissue | Single procedure + 10–14 days recovery | $300–$1,200 depending on complexity and anesthesia needs | High when combined with appropriate antibiotic therapy |
| Allergy management (Apoquel, Cytopoint, immunotherapy) | Recurrent pyoderma driven by underlying atopic dermatitis | Ongoing / long-term | $45–$120/month (Apoquel); $65–$95/injection (Cytopoint) | Significantly reduces recurrence when underlying allergy is controlled |
Step-by-Step: How to Properly Apply Antibacterial Cream to a Dog's Wound
If your dog's wound falls into the "early/mild" category and you are proceeding with home care before a vet visit, follow this protocol to maximize effectiveness and minimize complications.
- Restrain safely. Have a second person gently hold your dog, or use a muzzle if your dog is pain-reactive. Even the gentlest dog may bite when a wound is touched.
- Clip hair around the wound. Use blunt-nosed scissors or electric clippers to remove hair within 1–2 inches of the wound edges. Hair traps bacteria and prevents ointment from contacting skin. Do not shave — clipping is sufficient and reduces irritation.
- Clean the wound. Flush with sterile saline solution (available at pharmacies for $3–$8) or a diluted chlorhexidine solution (1 part 2% chlorhexidine to 10 parts water). Avoid hydrogen peroxide — it damages healthy tissue. Gently wipe away debris with sterile gauze.
- Pat dry. Use a clean gauze pad to gently blot the area. Moisture trapped under ointment can macerate surrounding skin.
- Apply a thin layer of plain triple antibiotic ointment. Use a clean finger or cotton swab. A thin film is sufficient — thick applications increase the chance your dog will lick it off and ingest it. For a 30 lb (13.6 kg) dog, a pea-sized amount covers a 2-inch wound adequately.
- Prevent licking. This is the step most owners skip, and it is the step that causes most treatment failures. Fit an Elizabethan collar (cone), or use an inflatable recovery collar. For body wounds, a recovery suit or a clean t-shirt secured with medical tape can create a barrier. Allow 10–15 minutes for the ointment to absorb before removing any barrier.
- Reapply 2–3 times daily. Clean the wound gently before each reapplication to remove old ointment and any accumulated discharge.
- Monitor for 48–72 hours. Improvement should be visible within this window — reduced redness, less discharge, wound edges closing. If the wound worsens or shows no improvement, stop home treatment and see your veterinarian.
🚨 When to Call the Vet Immediately
Contact your veterinarian or an emergency clinic right away if you observe any of the following:
- Wound is a puncture (especially from another animal's bite) — these have a 60–80% infection rate without professional treatment
- Bleeding that does not stop after 10 minutes of direct pressure
- Wound on the face, near the eye, or involving the ear canal
- Signs of systemic illness: fever (normal canine range is 101.0–102.5°F / 38.3–39.2°C), lethargy, refusal to eat, vomiting
- Rapidly spreading redness, swelling, or dark/purple discoloration around the wound
- Foul odor emanating from the wound
- Your dog has ingested a significant amount of antibacterial cream — especially any product containing zinc oxide, tea tree oil, or lidocaine
- The wound involves exposed muscle, tendon, or bone
ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 (24/7, consultation fee applies) if your dog has ingested a potentially toxic topical product.
Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661 (24/7, consultation fee applies).
Cost of Treating Dog Skin Infections: What to Budget
The cost of treating a canine bacterial skin infection varies enormously based on severity, diagnostics required, and your geographic location. Here is a realistic breakdown based on 2025–2026 veterinary pricing.
| Scenario | Diagnostics | Treatment | Total Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minor scrape managed at home | None | OTC triple antibiotic + saline ($8–$20) | $8–$20 |
| Simple superficial infection (single visit) | Exam + cytology ($95–$175) | Oral antibiotics + medicated shampoo ($35–$115) | $130–$290 |
| Recurrent pyoderma (full workup) | Exam + cytology + culture + blood work ($295–$605) | Targeted antibiotics + allergy management ($65–$200/month ongoing) | $360–$805 initial, then $65–$200/month |
| Deep abscess requiring surgery | Exam + blood work + pre-anesthetic testing ($170–$335) | Surgical debridement + antibiotics + rechecks ($400–$1,500) | $570–$1,835 |
| Worst-case: resistant infection (MRSP) | Full workup + repeat cultures ($500–$975) | Specialized antibiotics + dermatology referral ($200–$500 consultation) + months of treatment | $700–$2,500+ |
Pet insurance note: Most comprehensive pet insurance policies cover skin infection treatment including diagnostics, medications, and surgery, subject to your deductible and reimbursement level. However, pre-existing condition exclusions mean that if your dog has a documented history of skin infections before enrollment, recurrence may not be covered. Average monthly premiums for accident-and-illness policies in 2026 range from $30–$70 depending on breed, age, and location.
Prognosis and Expected Recovery Timelines
Outcomes for bacterial skin infections in dogs are generally favorable when the condition is identified early and treated appropriately. However, prognosis varies significantly by severity and underlying cause.
| Condition Severity | Expected Recovery Time | Prognosis |
|---|---|---|
| Superficial abrasion / minor cut | 5–10 days | Excellent. Full healing expected with basic wound care and topical antibacterial cream. |
| Superficial pyoderma | 2–4 weeks | Excellent with appropriate topical or oral antibiotics. Recurrence is common if underlying cause (allergies, endocrine disease) is not addressed. |
| Deep pyoderma | 6–12 weeks | Good to excellent with culture-guided oral antibiotics. Treatment compliance is critical — stopping antibiotics too early is the leading cause of recurrence and antibiotic resistance. |
| Abscess / deep wound infection | 2–6 weeks post-surgery | Good with surgical intervention and appropriate antibiotics. Complications (wound dehiscence, persistent drainage) occur in approximately 10–15% of cases. |
| MRSP / resistant infection | 8–16 weeks or longer | Guarded to good. Requires specialized antibiotic selection based on culture. Topical therapy becomes more important as oral options may be limited. Dermatology referral often improves outcomes. |
Life expectancy impact: Bacterial skin infections themselves are rarely life-threatening. The prognosis question for skin infections is really about quality of life and recurrence management. Dogs with well-managed underlying allergies or endocrine disease can live normal lifespans despite periodic skin flare-ups. The exception is untreated deep infections that progress to sepsis — a systemic bacterial infection that carries a mortality rate of 20–50% in veterinary patients, underscoring why early intervention matters.
Prevention: Keeping Your Dog's Skin Healthy and Infection-Free
Preventing skin infections is substantially cheaper and less stressful than treating them. These strategies address the most common risk factors.
Daily and Weekly Skin Maintenance
- Skin fold care: For Bulldogs, Pugs, Shar-Peis, and other fold-prone breeds, clean facial and body folds 2–3 times weekly with chlorhexidine wipes (e.g., Dechloro Wipes, $12–$18 for 50 count). Dry thoroughly — moisture is the enemy.
- Post-swim drying: Thoroughly towel-dry your dog after swimming or bathing, paying attention to ears, armpits, groin, and between toes. For water-loving breeds, consider a blow-dryer on the cool setting for dense coats.
- Regular grooming: Brush double-coated breeds 2–3 times weekly to prevent matting, which traps moisture and debris against the skin. Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks for breeds requiring it.
- Flea and tick prevention: Maintain year-round parasite control. Flea bites trigger allergic dermatitis, which is the single most common underlying cause of secondary bacterial skin infections in dogs. Products like Bravecto, NexGard, or Simparica Trio provide reliable coverage ($45–$75 per 3-month supply).
Nutrition and Immune Support
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Fish oil supplementation (EPA/DHA at 30–50 mg/kg body weight daily) has demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects on canine skin. Look for veterinary-formulated products with third-party testing for purity. Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Pet or Welactin Canine are widely recommended ($20–$40 for a 2-month supply for a 50 lb dog).
- Complete and balanced diet: Ensure your dog's food carries an AAFCO statement of nutritional adequacy. Poor nutrition compromises skin barrier function and immune response.
Environmental Management
- Allergen reduction: If your dog has diagnosed environmental allergies, work with your vet on a management plan. Wipe paws and belly after outdoor exposure. Wash bedding weekly in hypoallergenic detergent.
- Wound prevention: Inspect your yard for sharp fencing, thorny plants, and debris. Keep your dog away from rough brush during hikes. For dogs prone to hot spots, clip the coat shorter in summer months.
Frequently Asked Questions About Antibacterial Cream for Dogs
Can I put Neosporin on my dog?
Plain Neosporin (triple antibiotic ointment containing bacitracin, neomycin, and polymyxin B without added pain relievers) is generally safe for minor wounds on dogs when applied in a thin layer. The critical requirement is preventing your dog from licking it off — use an Elizabethan collar. Avoid Neosporin "Plus" or "Pain Relief" formulations, as the added ingredients (pramoxine, sometimes additional compounds) increase the risk of adverse reactions if ingested.
What antibacterial cream is safe for dogs that lick their wounds?
No antibacterial cream is completely safe for a dog to ingest in quantity. However, plain triple antibiotic ointment in small amounts is the lowest-risk OTC option if some licking occurs. Medical-grade Manuka honey is another option that is safe if licked, as it is a food-grade product with natural antibacterial properties. Regardless of the product, preventing licking with a cone or recovery suit is always the recommended approach — licking mechanically disrupts healing and introduces oral bacteria to the wound.
How long should I use antibacterial cream before seeing results?
For minor superficial wounds, you should see improvement — reduced redness, decreased discharge, wound edges drawing together — within 48 to 72 hours of consistent application (2–3 times daily). If the wound shows no improvement or worsens after 3 days, discontinue home treatment and consult your veterinarian. Continuing to apply OTC cream to a non-improving wound delays proper diagnosis and can allow a treatable infection to progress.
Can antibacterial cream cause allergic reactions in dogs?
Yes. Neomycin, one of the three antibiotics in standard triple antibiotic ointment, is a known contact sensitizer in both humans and dogs. Signs of an allergic reaction include increased redness, swelling, itching, or hives at the application site — paradoxically making the wound look worse rather than better. If you observe worsening symptoms after applying antibacterial cream, stop use immediately, gently clean the area with saline, and contact your veterinarian.
My dog licked antibacterial cream — should I be worried?
A small lick of plain triple antibiotic ointment is unlikely to cause serious harm, though it may cause mild gastrointestinal upset (drooling, brief vomiting, or soft stool). However, if your dog ingested a significant amount, or if the product contained zinc oxide, tea tree oil, lidocaine, or other toxic additives, contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 immediately. Both operate 24/7 and a consultation fee applies.
Are there natural alternatives to antibacterial cream for dogs?
Medical-grade Manuka honey (UMF 10+ or higher, sterilized for wound use) is the most evidence-supported natural topical antibacterial for canine wounds. Studies published in veterinary journals have demonstrated its efficacy against common wound pathogens including Staphylococcus pseudintermedius. Diluted chlorhexidine (2% solution) is another non-antibiotic antiseptic widely used in veterinary practice. Avoid "natural" remedies like essential oils, garlic paste, or apple cider vinegar on open wounds — these lack evidence for wound healing and several are toxic to dogs.
Which breeds are most prone to skin infections that might need antibacterial treatment?
According to the American Kennel Club, breeds with the highest predisposition to bacterial skin infections include English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Shar-Peis, Cocker Spaniels, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Boxers, West Highland White Terriers, and Labrador Retrievers. The common threads are skin folds, dense coats that trap moisture, and genetic predisposition to allergic skin disease. If you own one of these breeds, proactive skin maintenance is essential — don't wait for an infection to develop before implementing a prevention routine.
Can I use human antibacterial cream on my dog long-term?
No. OTC antibacterial cream is appropriate for short-term use (5–7 days) on minor wounds only. Long-term or repeated use of topical antibiotics — in humans or dogs — contributes to antibiotic resistance, which is a growing concern in veterinary medicine. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MRSP) infections in dogs have increased significantly over the past decade, and inappropriate antibiotic use is a contributing factor. If your dog has recurrent skin issues, the solution is identifying and managing the underlying cause with your veterinarian, not continuous application of OTC antibacterial cream.
Aaron Whyte
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
