Prevent Skin Infections: How to Safely Clean Your Dog’s Face Folds
Dogs with wrinkly faces are adorable—but those folds need regular care to stay clean and healthy. Breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Shar-Peis are especially known for their deep skin folds around the face. These cute creases can trap moisture, dirt, and bacteria, which may lead to skin problems if not cleaned properly.
In this article, you’ll learn how to safely clean your dog’s face folds, why it’s important, what signs to look for, and when to call your vet. With the right routine and gentle care, you can help your pup stay comfortable and infection-free.
Understanding Facial Folds in Dogs
Facial folds, also called skin wrinkles or creases, are common in certain dog breeds. These are natural loose folds of skin, often around the nose, eyes, or mouth. While they give dogs their unique look, folds can become problem areas without regular cleaning.
Inside each fold, the skin rubs against itself. This creates a warm, damp space—perfect conditions for bacteria and yeast to grow. Add in food crumbs, drool, and sweat, and you have a recipe for irritation or infection.
Some breeds are born with more facial folds than others. Common breeds with skin folds include:
- English Bulldogs
- French Bulldogs
- Pugs
- Shar-Peis
- Basset Hounds
- Boxers (to a lesser extent)
It’s important to know that these folds aren’t harmful on their own—they just need extra care to prevent issues.
How Facial Folds Function
The folds themselves don’t serve a medical purpose, but they are part of the breed’s natural appearance. For example, Bulldogs were originally bred with wrinkles to help channel blood away from their eyes during dog fights. Today, those folds remain as part of their distinctive look.
But because the skin stays close together in these areas, air circulation is limited. This creates a moist environment, especially after meals, walks in the rain, or hot weather. Over time, if not cleaned, this can lead to buildup of oils, dead skin cells, and microbes.
When cleaning isn’t part of the dog’s routine, those folds can become irritated, inflamed, or infected—something called skin fold dermatitis.
Signs of a Dirty or Infected Face Fold
It’s not always obvious when a face fold needs attention. But there are some common signs that the area may be dirty or even infected.
Watch for these symptoms:
- Redness or pink skin inside the fold
- A strong or sour smell (often like corn chips or cheese)
- Brown, yellow, or green discharge
- Crusting or scabbing in or around the fold
- Your dog scratching or pawing at the area
- Whimpering or pulling away when you touch the fold
If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to clean the area and monitor it. If symptoms don’t improve or get worse, talk to your veterinarian.
How to Safely Clean Your Dog’s Face Folds
Cleaning your dog’s face folds doesn’t have to be stressful. With gentle products and a calm approach, you can make it part of your daily routine.
Follow these steps to safely clean your dog’s wrinkles:
- Gather your supplies. You’ll need:
- Soft, damp cloth or cotton pad
- Pet-safe, unscented face wipes or saline solution
- Dry soft towel or clean gauze
- Choose a calm time. Try cleaning after a walk or during quiet time so your dog is relaxed.
- Lift the folds gently. Carefully separate the fold to expose the skin inside. Be gentle—this area is sensitive.
- Wipe the area. Use the damp cloth or wipe to clean out any debris or moisture. If using a cleaning solution, apply it to the cloth first—not directly to your dog’s skin.
- Dry the fold completely. Use a dry towel or gauze to gently pat the area dry. Moisture left behind can lead to irritation.
- Reward your dog. A treat or praise makes this a positive experience and easier next time.
For some dogs, daily cleaning is necessary. Others may only need it a few times a week. Your vet can help you figure out what’s best for your pet based on their breed, skin type, and overall health.
Do’s and Don’ts of Face Fold Care
Keep these tips in mind to help keep your dog’s face folds clean and healthy:
- Do use soft, non-scented wipes or cloths
- Do dry folds thoroughly after cleaning
- Do check folds regularly for signs of redness or odor
- Don’t use alcohol or hydrogen peroxide (they sting and dry out the skin)
- Don’t leave folds wet after bathing or swimming
- Don’t ignore bad smells or discharge—these are signs of possible infection
Think of it like brushing your teeth—it’s a small daily task that makes a big difference over time.
When to See a Veterinarian
Even with the best care, skin issues can sometimes develop. If your dog shows signs of discomfort or the folds look worse after cleaning, it’s time to check in with your vet.
Call your vet if you notice:
- Persistent redness or swelling
- Pus or foul-smelling discharge
- Bleeding or open sores inside the fold
- Signs of pain when you touch the area
- Behavior changes like hiding, shaking, or whining
Your vet may prescribe a medicated cream or antifungal treatment, especially if an infection is present. In some cases, surgical removal of deep folds may be considered, but this is usually a last resort.
Don’t feel discouraged if your dog develops a skin issue—these are common and very treatable when caught early. A little extra attention now can prevent more serious problems later.
Final Thoughts
Keeping your dog’s face folds clean is a simple, loving way to support their health. It helps prevent skin irritation, reduces the risk of infection, and keeps your dog comfortable and happy. Plus, it gives you a chance to bond with your pup and check for any signs of trouble early.
If you’re ever unsure how to care for your dog’s skin, don’t hesitate to ask your veterinarian. They can help you create a routine that’s safe, easy, and tailored to your dog’s needs.
With a bit of patience and practice, cleaning your dog’s face folds can become a quick and caring part of your daily life together.
