Lip Fold Dermatitis in Shar Pei: Cause, Prevention & Care

The Shar-Pei dog breed is instantly recognisable due to their distinctive blue-black tongues and loose, stretchy skin folds that make them appear as if they are growing into their skin. While this unique look is charming, it comes with skin care challenges, particularly around the face and muzzle.

Lip fold dermatitis is a common skin irritation affecting dogs with heavy facial wrinkles, especially Shar Peis. This infection-prone condition develops in the creases of the skin folds around the lips, and once established, can be difficult to resolve.

For owners of Shar Peis or any breed with deep muzzle folds, understanding lip fold dermatitis—how it develops, its symptoms, preventions, and treatment—is vital to protecting your dog’s comfort.

What is lip fold dermatitis?

Lip fold dermatitis is inflammation and soreness that occurs within the tight creases of skin folds around the dog’s mouth. It affects many brachycephalic breeds and others with loose lip folds, including Bulldogs and Basset Hounds. In Shar Peis, it is particularly common due to their genetically thick and heavily folded skin.

This condition results in redness, hot spots, rashes, and sores within the folds. It can be distressing for dogs because the affected areas are often moist and warm, encouraging bacterial and yeast infections. These infections cause foul odours and visible discharge, which owners may miss without regular inspection.

How does lip fold dermatitis develop?

Shar Peis have a hereditary condition called cutaneous hyaluronosis or mucinosis, causing excess mucin between skin cells and leading to pronounced, thick folds. These folds trap moisture from saliva and skin secretions, dirt, shed skin cells, and food particles. The warm, moist environment promotes bacterial and fungal overgrowth, causing inflammation and irritation.

Friction between these folds and clogged pores further trigger soreness and skin damage, increasing the risk of chronic and recurrent infections.

Symptoms to watch for

It's important to regularly check your Shar Pei’s lip folds for early signs of dermatitis. Key symptoms include:

• Clammy or moist skin within the folds
• Visible dirt, crusting, or a build-up of grimy debris
• Redness, swelling, and irritated skin
• Discharge or pus, sometimes with a foul smell
• Ulcerations, cyst formation or thickened skin patches
• Foul odours indicating bacterial or yeast infection

Vet diagnosis and treatment

If you observe any signs, consult your vet promptly. They may part the skin folds to visually confirm inflammation or infection and take swab samples to identify bacteria or fungus involved.

Treatment depends on severity but typically includes:

• Cleaning and drying folds multiple times daily to reduce moisture and debris
• Topical antibiotics or antifungals applied locally to combat infection
• Oral medications if infections are more severe or persistent
• Soothing creams to promote skin healing and reduce irritation

Preventing lip fold dermatitis

Prevention is the best strategy. Establish a daily routine to clean and dry your dog’s facial folds thoroughly. This stops trapped moisture and debris from creating an infection-friendly environment.

Use a soft cloth or hypoallergenic wipes recommended by vets, and ensure folds are dried completely after cleaning. Regular grooming and avoiding excess drooling or food residue buildup in the folds also help.

Stay vigilant for any early symptoms and seek veterinary advice quickly to avoid chronic problems.

Responsible ownership and Shar Pei welfare

Lip fold dermatitis is a lifelong concern in Shar Peis that demands diligent care. It highlights the importance of responsible breeding, focusing on health traits that minimise excessive skin folds and promote better air circulation.

As a Shar Pei owner, managing your pet’s skin fold health improves their quality of life and prevents painful infections. Always source your puppy from a reputable Shar Pei breeder who prioritises health and temperament.

Conclusion

Lip fold dermatitis in the Shar Pei is caused by their unique skin structure and predisposition to bacterial and yeast infections within deep facial folds. Careful daily cleaning, vigilant monitoring for symptoms, and early veterinary treatment are essential to managing this condition.

By maintaining a consistent hygiene routine and partnering with your vet on prevention and treatment, you can keep your Shar Pei happy, comfortable, and healthy throughout their life.