Hello there!
Puppy pyoderma is usually something that is outgrown with age, although I would expect that this dog will be more susceptible to developing similar disorders in the future.
Often, part of the reason this occurs is due to the pup's lack of a developed immune system. It's often a staph infection that occurs with this condition. Staph bacteria is always present on the skin, and a robust immune system keeps it in check. You often see staph infections in cases of an underdeveloped immune system, an immune system disorder like an autoimmune disorder, or in cases where there is stress on the body, which impairs the immune system's functioning. A round of antibiotics is usually administered to lessen the severity of the infection in problem areas, but it can also improve the overall situation, leading to remission in a few cases. Often, longterm antibiotics for a few week's time is required.
In terms of its seriousness, it's a condition that does need to be monitored, as the minor infections and irritation can take hold and you can end up with a more serious infection. Your vet may also try him on steroids, as this can help reduce inflammation and improve the overall situation, so this is something I would discuss with your vet - it can help to snap them out of a bout, so to speak. Scarring is usually the only long lasting effect, although sometimes, it can be pretty severe, resulting in visible areas of thickened skin where hair no longer grows.
Keeping the area clean with daily cleansings can really help and applying an antibiotic cream, particularly in times where the condition worsens, may help as well. In cases when the condition flares or worsens, oral antibiotics will be prescribed. Often, a vet will try the animal on antibiotics to see if it will resolve the condition completely, which does occasionally occur, particularly in less serious cases.
Here's a good site that discusses this condition:
http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?cls=2&articleid=878
http://www.afghanhoundsinternational.net/health/juvenile-pyoderma.htm
And here's a link to recognize infection:
http://animalhusbandry.suite101.com/article.cfm/signs_of_an_infection_in_your_pet
http://animalhusbandry.suite101.com/article.cfm/cleaning_a_pets_wound
I hope your puppy is feeling better soon! Don't hesitate to let me know if you have any additional questions!
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-Mia Carter
Pet Expert
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Edited by Mia Carter on May 11 2008 at 8:49 PM
• A timely visit to your vet is the best way to get a correct diagnosis! • Please "ACCEPT" if my answer was helpful! •