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• Part 1 of 3: Making the diagnosis
• Part 2 of 3: Treatment by the vet
• Part 3 of 3: Trying natural remedies

Folliculitis is an infection of the hair follicle. It can be caused by bacteria or fungi entering the follicle, but it can also be a sign of an underlying problem in the dog's immune system or a skin condition. If your dog has folliculitis, it's important to get it diagnosed and treated. A good diagnosis ensures that you can determine the right treatment. Treatment is usually one of three options: treating the skin, treating the internal infection, or addressing the underlying cause that caused the infection.

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Part 1 of 3: Making the diagnosis

1. Identify the symptoms of folliculitis. In order to diagnose folliculitis, you need to be able to identify its symptoms. When looking at your dog's skin, pay attention to:
   • Redness
   • Swelling
   • Itching
   • Pimples
   • Hair loss
2. Take your dog to the vet. If you suspect your dog has folliculitis, you should get it examined by a vet. The vet will ask you what symptoms your dog has and when they started. He will then examine the dog himself and look at the area of ​​infection.
   • In most cases, the vet can make an initial diagnosis by looking at the dog's skin. Folliculitis is one of the most common skin infections in dogs, so the vet has probably seen it many times before.
   • Folliculitis can have many causes, so the vet will likely want to perform several additional tests to determine the cause and choose the best treatment.
3. Get a scrape test or skin cytology. The vet can do a scrape test to check for mites. This method of testing consists of taking a skin or hair sample and then viewing it under a microscope.
   • In skin cytology, the skin is also viewed under a microscope, but unlike the scrape test, this is done to identify a bacterial infection.
4. Have a fungus or bacteria culture done. The vet may suggest a culture to determine the exact nature of the infection. This is especially important for chronic infections that do not respond to previous treatment attempts.
   • Bacteria culture can be expensive, so it is usually only done to make sure the treatment will be successful.

Part 2 of 3: Treatment by the vet

1. Use antimicrobial shampoo. If your dog has folliculitis, you will need to treat the skin to get rid of the infection. Applying medication to the surface of the skin will remove organisms and debris from the surface of the skin. This is usually done with an anti-microbial shampoo applied to the coat.
   • This type of shampoo usually needs to sit for at least 10 minutes before rinsing out to be effective.
   • The vet will tell you how often to use the shampoo. This type of treatment usually needs to be applied for several weeks before the situation improves.
2. Use topical antibacterial medications. If your dog's infection is localized and not too advanced, only topical treatment may be prescribed. If the infection is advanced and has spread to much of your dog's skin, a topical treatment in combination with a medicated shampoo may be prescribed.
   • Topical medications can come in the form of a lotion, spray, gel, cream, or ointment.
   • Follow the vet's instructions regarding how and how often to apply the medication.
   • You may need to put a lampshade on your dog to prevent him from licking or biting the treated area.
3. Give the dog systemic therapy. If the infection is very advanced, the dog may need to be given oral antibiotics in conjunction with coat treatment. Antibiotics are usually given for 3-6 weeks, depending on how long the symptoms last.
   • Typically, antibiotics are given for up to a week after symptoms disappear. This ensures that the infection has been addressed.
   • Discuss the option of oral antibiotics with the vet. Most vets try to avoid prescribing large amounts of antibiotics to prevent bacteria from developing resistance. If your dog's infection is mild, it may not be necessary to give oral antibiotics.
4. Begin treatment for any underlying conditions. If your dog has folliculitis, it may mean he has an underlying health problem. This can be as simple as a flea infestation, but it can also be more complicated, such as a food allergy or autoimmune condition. An underlying problem must be eliminated or treated so that the infection does not come back in the future.
   • The treatment for an autoimmune condition or skin condition can be very different depending on your dog's specific problems.

Part 3 of 3: Trying natural remedies

1. Consult with the vet first. Although it is tempting to use a home remedy or natural remedy before taking the dog to the vet, it is essential to get the vet's approval before attempting any form of treatment. Of course does not always mean safeso you may be doing more harm than good. Trust the vet to want the best for your dog. Don't take any risks with your dog's health.
   • This is especially important if your dog has an underlying health problem. Treating the folliculitis without treating its cause means that the infection will continue, which can progressively worsen your dog's situation without proper treatment.
2. Apply natural topical treatments. There are several natural products you can use to relieve the symptoms of folliculitis in dogs. These are applied to the skin and can be very effective in soothing irritated skin. Natural topical treatments that can help with folliculitis symptoms include:
   • Tea: Tea is an emollient that can help reduce itching. Wet tea bags can be placed directly on the skin and kept there for a few minutes. This is best done when petting or brushing a calm dog.
   • Witch Hazel: This is an astringent that can be applied lightly to the skin. Just be aware that if it is prepared with alcohol or if too much is applied it can be irritating or painful on the infected skin.
   • Coconut Oil: This oil can be applied directly to irritated skin to soothe it. Do not allow your dog to lick or ingest the oil, as the extra fats can cause diarrhea and pancreatitis.
3. Supplement your dog's diet. Good nutrition is the key to a healthy, happy dog. You must provide your dog with quality food. Ask the vet about any supplements you can use to improve your dog's skin, as well as the correct dosage - this is especially important if your dog's condition may be allergy-related. Improving your dog's nutrition can be done by supplementing his diet with:
   • Probiotics: Giving probiotics can increase the amount of good bacteria in the digestive system. This helps the immune system by reducing the overload on that system during digestion, creating the ability to fight infections in other parts of the body. While there is no definitive evidence to show that probiotics improve your dog's skin, they are unlikely to cause any adverse effects.
   • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Give your dog more omega-3 fatty acids. These are usually given in the form of fish oil and can enhance the dog's natural anti-inflammatory response.