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Why does my 2-week-old puppy have pus-filled bumps on his belly?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

I'm caring for a 2 week old puppy (estimated) he hasn't opened his eyes or ears yet. His been to the vet and was cleaned of a over powering amount of ticks. He drinks well and wees, we have trouble getting him to poop and now on his belly small pus filled pimples are showing up, there is about a dozen so far

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 2nd, 2018

It looks like you've done a lot to help this little guy. I'm sure the vet would have told you this, but make sure you are stimulating him to poop after each feeding by wiping his bum with a warm, moist, tissue or soft cloth. Below is a link to an article with great information about caring for newborns.

https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/puppy-orphaned

These little pus-filled bumps are due to a bacterial infection (pyoderma). Puppies commonly get this on their bellies and they usually go away with good cleaning.

I recommend cleaning the belly with a medicated wipe or shampoo (can get this at the pet store) once a day until the bump(s) are gone. If it seems to get worse, then you'll want to take him into the vet for an exam. Below is a link to an article with more information about pyoderma.

https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/pyoderma-in-dogs

I hope that helps and your pup gets better soon.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on July 4th, 2017
Poor little George! How lucky for him that you found him and took him in. He could have a bacterial infection called puppy pyoderma. He will need to see a vet for this skin problem so it can be diagnosed and treated correctly. Tonight you can try bathing him in an Epsom salt bath, and take him into the vet first thing in the morning. I hope this helps :-)
3Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Elizabeth
Veterinarian
Published on November 10th, 2019
Those spots on Cham2 could be several things including allergies, skin mites, flea bites, ringworm (which humans can get) or a bacterial infection. You can try adding in an omega 3 fatty acid supplement for dogs, this can help improve the skin health. You may also try changing his diet to something like Royal Canin or Nutro as they are aimed at skin health. You can wash the lesions with soap once a day and rinse well (don't wash his whole body, just those spots). Protect the areas from licking or scratching and he may need to wear an Elizabethan collar at all times. If the lesions don't start looking better within about a week or if they get worse, have him examined by the veterinarian who may prescribe medications. Best of luck and please feel free to post any additional questions.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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The most likely cause is bacterial - called puppy impetigo. http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=2+2111&aid=878 I suggest you get these wipes and use them on the affected area twice daily until gone. http://www.allivet.com/p-5393-douxo-chlorhexidine-3-ps-pads-for-dogs-and-cats-30.aspx Hope this helps. Best wishes!

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