--- title: "Bacterial Infections in Dogs – What Is It, How Are They Caused, And How to Treat It?" id: "202939" type: "post" slug: "bacterial-infections-in-dogs-what-is-it-how-are-they-caused-and-how-to-treat-it" published_at: "2022-09-12T12:00:00+00:00" modified_at: "2022-12-20T14:58:26+00:00" url: "https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2022/09/12/bacterial-infections-in-dogs-what-is-it-how-are-they-caused-and-how-to-treat-it/" markdown_url: "https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2022/09/12/bacterial-infections-in-dogs-what-is-it-how-are-they-caused-and-how-to-treat-it.md" excerpt: "If your dog has recently been diagnosed with a bacterial infection making sure he receives the proper care is crucial. There are many different types of bacterial infections, and depending on the specific variety will determine which treatment method is..." taxonomy_category: - "Community" --- [Home](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/) / [Blog](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/blog/) / [Community](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/petland/) / **Bacterial Infections in Dogs – What Is It, How Are They Caused, And How to Treat It?** [Community](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/petland/) # Bacterial Infections in Dogs – What Is It, How Are They Caused, And How to Treat It? September 12, 2022 · 4 min read · [Carley Kuehner](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/author/cosmick/) [Stay connected via Google News Follow us for the latest pet updates and guides.](https://www.google.com/preferences/source?q=petlandsanantonio.com) If your dog has recently been diagnosed with a bacterial infection making sure he receives the proper care is crucial. There are many different types of bacterial infections, and depending on the specific variety will determine which treatment method is needed. The sooner you take this step, the sooner your fur-legged friend will begin to look and feel himself again. ## **What Is a Bacterial Infection?** A bacterial infection occurs when bacteria enter the body, increase in number, and cause a reaction in the body. The infection can take place anywhere in your dog’s body and quickly spread to other areas. The most common entry points take place through a scrape, cut or open wound, which allows a direct entryway into his body. Occasionally, the pathway can take place through their nose, eyes, and other areas that are made of mucus membranes. After bacteria enter your dog, it finds their way into the bloodstream, which results in a sick dog. ## **Frequently Asked Question** What are the most commonly documented reasons why a dog suffers from a bacterial infection? Have a weakened immune system: Dogs that suffer from other health issues that compromise their immune system tend to contract bacterial infections easier. With a weak immune system, fighting off things such as bacteria is more challenging. **Unbalanced diet:** Dogs that are fed diets that are not balanced and fail to provide the basic nutrients a dog needs run the risk of not being able to defend themselves from infection. Good quality food is crucial in a dog’s health. Enjoying this read? You'll love our puppies. Adorable, vet-checked pups looking for their forever homes — available now. [Meet our puppies](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/) **Poor hygiene:** Dogs like to play and while doing so often find themselves with small abrasions and scratches. If these small wounds are not properly tended to and cleaned, bacteria can enter them, leading to infection. Some of the wounds are so small that you may only see them while brushing or washing your dog. Remember, even the smallest wound is large enough to contract a bacterial infection. **Dog’s age:** Like people, age takes a toll on our bodies and leaves us more vulnerable to health ailments. An older immune system tends to not be as resilient as a young and healthy one. **Allergies:** Dogs that suffer from allergies tend to scratch themselves excessively. The constant scratching can break intact skin, which will allow bacteria to enter their body. Making sure your dog is treated for allergies is a great way to prevent him from uncontrollably scratching and tearing his skin. ## **Varieties Of Bacterial Infections in Dogs** **Skin infections** – Generally begin through a small open wound under your dog’s coat. Still reading? Our puppies are waiting. Healthy, happy pups ready to meet their families — see who's available today. [Meet our puppies](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/) **Urinary Tract Infection** – When bacteria enters your dog’s urinary tract, an infection may take place. **Leptospirosis** – Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that your dog can contract when coming in contact with infected urine from another animal. **Bacterial Eye Infections** – Eye infections can also be caused by bacteria entering through the mucus membrane areas of your dog’s eyes. ## **How To Treat A Bacterial Infection In Dogs** The first step in treating a bacterial infection in your dog is to identify it. Dogs that are suffering from a bacterial infection may not have an appetite or desire for water, may show signs of exhaustion, not want to go outside, and tend to lay around more than usual. If your dog has a bacterial infection consulting with your veterinarian as soon as possible is recommended. A veterinarian is able to further examine the dog, run tests if needed, and prescribe antibiotics which will help combat the infection. In certain instances, if your dog’s infection stems from an open wound on his skin, special shampoos or ointments can be used to help rid the bacteria causing the issue. Although this type of infection is common in dogs, it is still something that needs to be taken seriously. Delaying treatment could lead to more serious health issues for your dog. [Stay connected via Google News Follow us for the latest pet updates and guides.](https://www.google.com/preferences/source?q=petlandsanantonio.com) Available Now## If you loved this, you'll *love our puppies* Meet the happy, healthy pups ready to join your family today — browse the whole litter below. 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My dad got my Malti-poo from this store 6yrs ago when I was a teen. We bought him at 3mo old! He was a happy puppy. My family requested to play with him in the little cubicles and we were delighted. He was a little pricey, but he had his papers, proper shots/vaccines, and had an underbite that made him adorable. He’s doing well even today! Never gotten injured or sick. He’s expected to live the normal expectancy of a malti-poo. I don’t remember much about the store or any changes since then, but I remember that the lady helping us was nice! Here is Marshmallow! Posted on Google Charles B Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Lots of dogs for adoption, well taken care of. Also have some birds, rabbits and a few sleepy ferrits. I stopped in for some feeder fish. Very nice staff. Posted on Google Joshua B Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Loved the exotic birds Posted on Google Melinda R Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This was my 2nd time back. My daughter has been wanting another set of guinea pigs. I saw the most beautiful lionhead rabbit 🐇 about 7 weeks. LORENZO educated me on their demeanor, foods etc... I was there a good while, he showed no signs of rushing me, or pushing a sale. Answered all my questions and even educated me on ferrets as i asked lol he loves his job & wish all associates were like this everywhere! I was very pleased 😀 didn't grab the rabbit as my daughter took forever to answer me, but we're leaving for vacation and would not be cool to leave him alone . We will be back! And I will only ask for him! Thank you for the great customer service! ```