Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!
Become a member today!
Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
Already a member? Sign in
Become a credit card member today!
Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
when you use Petco Pay!
APPLY NOW
Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

Why do my bulldog's face wrinkles smell and how to clean them?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Bulldog | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 6 months old | 60 lbs

I have a 1 year old bull dog, i clean his wrinkles on his face every morning and every time i come home from work his irritation went away but there is still an odor, and i wanted to know if there any creams that i can buy for that.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist, Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner

Published on May 1st, 2018

The most common reason for the smell in facial folds is an overgrowth of a normal yeast that grows on the skin called Malassezia. There are a number of medicated wipes that have an anti-fungal medication in them that might help with the smell. The most common anti-fungal ingredients in the topical wipes is miconazole or ketoconazole. You can ask your veterinarian which products they carry. I generally recommend a medicated wipe over a cream because a cream can actually add moisture to the skin fold and allow even more yeast to grow in the area.
Good luck! I hope that was helpful and answered your question. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Related Questions

How to clean and keep dry my English bulldog's deep face folds?

I recommend that you sue a medicated wipe like Dechra MalAcetic HC Wipes to clean the skin folds once daily. There is not magical way to keep it dry except to dry it with a clean towel when it gets wet, like after mealtimes or after bathing. If Rooney's eyes water more than seems normal, it may be wise to have him checked out by a vet to discuss possible causes and specific treatments. Many Bulldogs also have food allergies and some skin issues can be resolved by finding an appropriate dog food - this can also be discussed with your vet.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

English Bulldog smelly folds: How to stop recurring yeast infections?

A more aggressive treatment is required for skin fold dermatitis of moderate severity. Malaseb shampoo may be the option you are looking for. This is a medicated shampoo on prescription. If you already tried this, antibiotic course will help as well. Maintenance treatment, following resolution, can be established with diluted hibiscrub or betadine solution. Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Why does my pug puppy's snout smell and have white specs in wrinkles?

Hello. Thanks for using PetCoach. Great question! Pugs get yeast build up in those folds. What you are smelling is the yeast. You need to use medicated wipes to combat this. Regular baby wipes won't work. It is also recommended that you clean the folds 1-2x per day. I recommend you use these: http://www.allivet.com/p-1479-malacetic-wet-wipes.aspx Hope this helps. Best wishes!

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My French Bulldog has a rash in his facial folds. What can I do?

Brachycephalic dogs (dogs with short faces) commonly develop skin problems in their facial folds. The combination of excessive skin and the tearing from their eyes commonly results in excessive moisture in their skin folds which can easily become infected. There are a number of medicated wipes on the market that your veterinarian can recommend to treat and help prevent skin fold infections since this will likely be a recurrent problem. Good luck! I hope that was helpful. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Why are my dog's skin folds under her eyes red and irritated?

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I can see how the skin is red in the folds on his face under the left eye. It is not unusual for pugs, frenchies and bull dogs to get a facial fold dermatitis. Moisture builds up in the wrinkles and an infection can occur. There are wipes you can get to to wipe the affected areas. I like Mal-a-ket wipes or Douxo chlorhex wipes. Your Vet should carry them Good luck!

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

What's the best product to clean pug wrinkles & prevent yeast?

Great question! I would recommend an antibacterial wash over a cream daily. The most important step is getting those crevices dry after. Any remaining moisture will cause a breeding ground for the yeast and bacteria. I would recommend this daily. Talk to your vet about antibacterial wipes (different companies make different medicated wipes). You could also try a small amount of baby powder in the crevices to help dry the area. I hope this helps! Kisses to Rosie!

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Why is my English bulldog stinky with bald spots and ear/tail issues?

Oh Bruno is a handsome guy! Unfortunately, bulldogs are very prone to skin allergies and secondary yeast and bacterial infections, as well as fold dermatitis (in the facial and tail folds). I love to use Malaket wipes in all folds once daily. If that is not solving the problem, talk with your vet about allergy treatments. Often once the allergies are under control, the infections will stop. I hope this helps and best of luck Bruno!

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Have A Vet Question?

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

Share