Skip to content
newpuppy.vet
Emergency
Menu

Is This Normal? Finder · Skin, ears and eyes

My puppy has pimples on his belly. Is that normal?

By Dr. Steve Pelton, DVM

The short answer

Small red bumps, white-tipped pimples or yellow crusts on the pink belly and inner thighs are often puppy pyoderma, a shallow skin infection that's common in young puppies. Most cases are mild, but your vet should look, because a few other things can look the same. Skip the creams in the cabinet until they do.

Why it happens

The pink belly skin is thin and close to the floor, and a young puppy's skin defenses are still developing. Germs that live on the skin can get a foothold.

Which door?

  • WATCHCall in the daytime. Often minor, but your vet should take a look.

When to call

Tick what fits and see which door you're at.

Tick anything you're seeing

Your door: WATCHWATCH

Nothing ticked and he's bright, playful, eating and drinking? Keep an eye on him, jot down what you see, and call in the daytime if it doesn't settle.

Under 16 weeks, a toy breed, or not done with his shots? Move everything one door closer to GO NOW.

Not sure which door you're at? That's a call. Call your vet.

Worried right now? Check the Three Doors list, from most urgent down, and stop at the first door that fits.

Is this an emergency?

General education, not veterinary advice. Your vet's plan for your puppy comes first.