He stinks there. She licks herself constantly. The skin needs attention.
Your dog is constantly licking one spot. Or the smell is back, a day after washing. The fur there is always a bit damp, no matter how clean you keep him. These are small signs, but they keep coming back.
It's often about the more hidden places: the skin around the genital area and the folds close by. Places you don't look at daily, and where little air circulates.
Moist folds: a common and underestimated problem
In male dogs, some discharge can occur around the foreskin. This area becomes moist, and if that moisture remains, the skin in that area can become irritated.
In female dogs, a skin fold sometimes hangs over the urinary area. Very little air reaches there. You see this more often in dogs with a bit of excess weight and in breeds like the Bulldog, Pug or shar-pei. The skin turns red, the smell is enticing, and your dog regularly licks or rubs that spot.
It's often only noticeable around the anus when your dog starts scooting on the floor, constantly licking themselves, or has a smell that returns even after washing. In dogs with a full or long coat around that area, dirt and moisture accumulate more easily.
What can you do?
Regular and careful cleaning of these areas helps. Apply a small amount of cleanser to a soft cloth or gauze and gently wipe the area. There's no need for harsh scrubbing, which can be counterproductive. The skin is sensitive there, so a gentle application is sufficient.
How often you do that depends on your dog. For some, a few times a week is enough, while others may need it more frequently. Ask your veterinarian for a schedule that suits your dog.
When are you going to the vet?
This care should be part of your daily routine, just like cleaning ears or trimming nails. However, if the skin remains red, you notice thicker or foul-smelling discharge, your dog seems to be in pain when touched, or the complaints return despite regular cleaning? Then a visit to the veterinarian is in order. They can assess if something else is going on and what the best approach is.
For cleaning these sensitive areas, Prepuclean Available, a cleanser tailored to the skin around the foreskin, perineal area, and anus. Your veterinarian can tell you if it's suitable for your dog and how best to use it.
