What Dog Breeds Are Prone to Skin Problems & Coat Sensitivities?

Some dogs are more than just a little itchy, they’re born with skin that needs extra love and attention. If your pup has dry patches, constant scratching, or frequent skin infections, you’re not alone. Additionally, certain dog breeds are genetically prone to skin sensitivities and coat issues. Interested in knowing which dog breeds are more prone to skin problems and coat sensitivities?

We’ll break that down for you! Below are some of the most common dog breeds that need a little extra caution when it comes to taking care of them.

Additionally, Cerdos Pet Products are free from harsh chemicals, artificial fragrances, and harmful additives— which prevent annoying hot spots.

Most Common Dog Breeds with Skin & Coat Sensitivities:

1. Frenchies & Bulldogs (English & American)

Frenchies and Bulldogs, whether English or American, have adorable wrinkles that come with a not-so-cute problem: skin fold dermatitis. What is that? That is when moisture and debris accumulate in the deep folds of a Bulldog’s skin. This creates a breeding ground for bacteria and yeast. 

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2. Boxers

Boxers are quirky, energetic dogs that, unfortunately, often struggle with allergies and sensitive skin. Their short coat makes them more prone to contact dermatitis and skin infections. Boxers commonly develop allergic reactions to environmental allergens like tree or weed pollen, resulting in itchy red skin and even hives in some cases. 

Additionally, Boxers are known to suffer from seasonal flank alopecia– a condition where patches of hair on the sides may thin out in winter due to lack of sunlight.

3. German Shepherds

German Shepherd Dogs (GSDs) are a popular breed with common skin sensitivities. Some dogs are prone to food allergies, while others are prone to flea allergy dermatitis. Their thick double coat may conceal developing rashes or sores until fur is shed, meaning skin problems might advance before they’re noticed.

4.  Pugs

Another cute, wrinkly face! Pugs experience many of the same skin fold problems as their Bulldog cousins. They are prone to the same skin infection called skin fold dermatitis, especially on the face and around their corkscrew tail, due to tight wrinkles that stay moist. This leads to irritation, redness, and a sore rash between folds. Pugs also often show allergic reactions to environmental factors like pollen and dust mites, or even certain shampoos, which can cause intense scratching and patchy hair loss. 

5. Golden & Labrador Retrievers

Golden Retrievers and Labradors are beloved family dogs, but both are notoriously prone to allergies and resulting skin troubles. Goldens commonly develop atopic dermatitis– allergies to seemingly harmless triggers like mold, weeds, or grass– leading to intense itching, dry patches, and inflamed “hot spots” on the skin

Labradors similarly suffer frequent food or environmental allergies that cause itchy, flaky skin, hot spots, and excessive paw licking. Their thick double coats can also trap moisture and hide irritation until it becomes severe.

6. Terriers (Pit Bulls, Westies, Bull Terriers)

Bullies, Pitties, and Terriers are all rugged breeds. The terrier group includes a range of breeds from larger Pit Bull Terriers to small West Highland White Terriers, and many of them have notable skin sensitivities. Pit Bull Terriers (American Pit Bull, American Staffordshire Terrier), despite their tough appearance, are inclined to skin issues. They frequently suffer from environmental and food allergies, reacting with itchy skin (atopic dermatitis), red rashes on the belly, and chronic ear infections.

On the smaller side, West Highland White Terriers (Westies) are almost legendary for their high rate of atopic dermatitis; up to 25% of Westies may be affected by allergic skin disease. Additionally, Bull Terriers and Boston Terriers also show a tendency for atopic dermatitis (pollen, dust, and chemicals can set them off).

7. Shar-Peis

The Shar-Pei’s claim to fame is its abundance of wrinkles, and unfortunately, this makes them highly prone to skin irritation and infection. Shar-Peis commonly suffer from recurrent dermatitis between skin folds, yeast and bacterial infections in those warm, humid pockets, and general skin inflammation. Their coat is very short and rough, which can cause a kind of prickly irritation where folded skin rubs together. 

8. Dachshund

Dachshunds, especially the short-haired and wire-haired varieties, are moderately prone to skin conditions due to a combination of genetics, coat type, and environmental sensitivities. Their long, low-slung bodies also put them in close contact with allergens on the ground like grass, dust, and chemicals, which can lead to higher contact dermatitis.

9. Spaniels (Cocker Spaniels & Related Breeds)

Spaniels, such as the Cocker Spaniel (and also breeds like Springer Spaniels), are well-known to veterinarians for their ear and skin troubles. Their long, floppy ears create a warm, humid environment perfect for yeast and bacteria, often leading to chronic ear infections. Likewise, lip-fold dermatitis is common.

On the skin, many Spaniels suffer from atopic dermatitis. Cocker Spaniels, in particular, are prone to a form of seborrhea that makes their skin oily and flaky with a rancid odor if not managed. They may also develop "hot spots" and itchiness from flea allergies or environmental allergens, similar to retrievers.

10. Shih Tzus 

Shih Tzus are a popular small breed with their own range of skin challenges. Their long, flowing coat can hide a multitude of issues. Shih Tzus often suffer from skin allergies (both environmental and food-related), which manifest as itchy skin, hot spots, dry flaky patches, and even hair loss. They can experience frequent redness or rashes on the belly, around the tail base, and on the face. Because of their distinctive hair, which, if not kept trimmed, can irritate the eyes, they might also get secondary skin issues from tear staining or constant dampness on their face.

Certain dog breeds are genetically prone to skin and coat problems, especially in harsh weather climates where dry air, salt, and indoor heating worsen existing conditions. Remember, there are natural remedies and resources for a dog’s irritated skin. 

Love Their Skin, Naturally

If your dog belongs to one of these sensitive-skinned breeds, you know how important it is to treat their coat with extra care. Whether it's wrinkles that need regular cleaning, a coat prone to hot spots, or allergies that flare up with the seasons, your pup deserves gentle, effective solutions that actually work. That’s where Coat Refresher™ by Cerdos Pets comes in.

All-natural and cruelty-free, Coat Refresher™ is the no-fuss, no-water-needed way to keep your dog feeling fresh and itch-free between baths. Safe for all breeds and ages (yes, even the wiggly ones who hate water!), this antibacterial dry shampoo is perfect for wrinkly folds, dirty paws, or just daily upkeep. And pet parents love the easy sprinkle-and-brush formula!

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