21 Surefire Treatments for Schnauzer Bumps

If your Schnauzer has developed unsightly bumps, especially along his back, they are mostly likely a common Schnauzer skin condition called Comedone Syndrome. Any type of unusual growth or bump on your Schnauzer’s body can be worrisome, and you will want to become comfortable inspecting his skin and becoming, literally, an expert on any new developments or changes. Worrisome growths aside, Comedone Syndrome is one of the challenging aspects of being a Schnauzer parent. The condition is so common with Schnauzers that it has come to be affectionately (or not) known as “Schnauzer bumps.” While the bumps are essentially harmless, it’s important to know how to treat them.

How can I treat Schnauzer bumps? Comedone Syndrome (or, Schnauzer bumps) is common blackhead-like skin condition that affects the Schnauzer breed. While they can be unsightly, the bumps are harmless. Even though there is no complete cure, medicated shampoos, astringents, a healthy low-grain diet, and vitamin supplements can all help to treat the condition.

What Exactly are Schnauzer Bumps?

Also known as Comedone Syndrome, the “Schnauzer bumps” develop under the surface of the skin as a result of oil buildup on your Schnauzer’s pore.

The skin contains sebaceous glands that secrete an oil called sebum to keep the skin and hair moisturized. However, when the skin produces excess fat, the glands are blocked, leading to the development of Schnauzer bumps.

In short, they are the Schnauzer version of blackheads.

“Comedone Syndrome, or ‘Schnauzer Bumps’ is essentially harmless. In fact, it is essentially the Schnauzer version of blackheads.”

THE SCHNAUZER COLLECTIVE

How to Deal With Schnauzer Bumps

Schnauzer bumps are one of the most annoying and persistent Schnauzer problems.

Even though they are harmless (unless they become infected), Schnauzer parents are constantly on the look for effective treatments.

Whether its to address one-time flare ups or chronic problems, the Schnauzer world is full of medical solutions, topical solutions, and nutrient or food-based solutions.

The question is, what actually works?

While the question is simple, the answer is not straightforward.

The leading cause of Schnauzer Comedone Syndrome remains unknown. However, experts believe it is a result of an inherited dysfunction of the hair follicle that causes it to become blocked with keratin and oils and then dilate.

Because the underlying cause of Schnauzer bumps is not well-understood, treatments are intended to simply manage the condition as effectively as possible.

If you are interested in more details about what Schnauzer bumps are, how they develop, and how they may be confused with other skin conditions, you will want to read my article What Are Schnauzer Bumps? (Can The Be Popped and Infected?) for some extra details.

For now, let’s cover 21 effective ways to treat your Schnauzer’s bumps.

21 Ways to Treat Schnauzer Bumps

Unless a more serious condition or infection associated with your Schnauzer’s bumps develops, you will most likely just want to treat them at home.

Your veterinarian may have additional medical suggestions in the event your Schnauzer’s condition worsens, but realistically, you will most likely be addressing the condition yourself.

Mild cases of this condition can be treated at home using the following options:

#1 Monitor Your Schnauzer Routinely

Since Schnauzer bumps don’t have a defined cure, it is essential to inspect your Schnauzer’s skin regularly. This may help you to keep the bumps at a minimum and eliminate the possibility of flare-ups. In addition, and more importantly, it helps to screen for more serious problems such as cancerous growths.

#2 Visit With Your Veterinarian

Schnauzer bumps can look like any number of other skin conditions or even cancerous growths, especially to an untrained eye. If you become concerned about any type of growth, or if a growth changes size, color, or texture, make an appointment with your veterinarian.

The veterinarian can scrape the growth or take a biopsy and test it. When both you and your veterinarian know the nature of your Schnauzer’s growths, you can decide on a treatment plan, if needed.

#3 Accutane Rx

If your Schnauzer’s bumps have become extremely troublesome or seem prone to infection, your veterinarian may recommend Accutane.

Miniature Schnauzers that have Comedone Syndrome are known to respond well to this drug. However, it is an expensive form of treatment and is effective in only a small percentage of Schnauzers.

#4 Antibiotics

If your Schnauzer’s bumps have become infected, she will definitely need to be treated by your veterinarian. Your veterinarian will most likely prescribe antibiotics for 2-3 weeks and then reassess the situation.

#5 Keep a Short Coat

Consider keeping clipping your Schnauzer’s coat and keeping it short. Short coats allow the sun and air to penetrate the skin, killing and preventing the growth of microorganisms.

If you usually visit a professional groomer, ask him to be cautious when grooming your Schnauzer to avoid injuring the bumps.

In addition, you could consider becoming your Schnauzer’s groomer. This gives you an extra opportunity to keep an eye on any developing bumps or growths. This Wahl Cordless Trimmer is ideal for those of us who take on some grooming duties at home. It’s cordless, easy to handle, and it doesn’t overheat. It has a solid variety of clipping lengths and is gentle enough for the face and genital areas.

#6 Bathe Your Schnauzer Frequently

Schnauzers, especially Miniature Schnauzers, tend to have slightly oily skin.

Schnauzers with bumps should bathe frequently (2-3 a week) using antimicrobial cleansing formula shampoo until you begin seeing an improvement. Bathing often with medicated shampoo prevents the growth of additional microorganisms like fungi, bacteria and protozoa while removing dirt and excess oils that can block hair follicles.

However, you will also want to keep any eye on her skin to ensure that it is not becoming too dry. If it begins flaking or she seems to be itching, decrease to once per week and adjust from there.

#7 Benzoyl Peroxide Shampoo

This formualtion cleans your Schnauzer’s hair follicles and pores to remove any dirt and excess oils. Using the shampoo two to three times a week should prevent new bumps from developing. Frequent bathing is essential for the first two weeks, but it depends on the severity of the problem. For subsequent weeks begin bathing once a week.

Allow the shampoo to settle in the skin for 5-10 minutes before rinsing it off. Also, consider using a soft-bristled brush to scrub your Schnauzer’s coat and skin to loosen debris on skin surface. Then use a natural shampoo to wash the rest of the unaffected areas of his body.

Davis Benzoyl Peroxide Medicated Dog 12 oz Shampoo is an excellent place to start. If it works for your Schnauzer, it’s worth buying the bulk size.

#8 Antifungal & Antibacterial Shampoo

Decreasing bacteria and fungus in your Schnauzer’s hair and skin can reduce or even eliminate her pesky bumps.

Curaseb Antifungal & Antibacterial Chlorhexidine Shampoo for Dogs is an effective option that approaches veterinary strength. It is designed to treat a variety of skin issues and may clear up additional problems that your Schnauzer may be experiencing.

#9 Dandruff Shampoo

Shampoos designed to treat dandruff may help to address the bumps and potentially keep the condition at bay.

Normally, I wouldn’t recommend human shampoos for dogs. They can be harsh and potentially cause more problems than they solve. However, Head & Shoulders can be a good option if used only on the affected areas.

You may also want to check with your veterinarian, but bathing your Schnauzer with this type of antifungal human shampoo could help to treat this condition. This shampoo contains one percent pyrithione zinc, an antifungal, antiseborrheic and antibacterial ingredient that helps remove yeast and bacteria from the skin, as well as soothe and heal it.

“Decreasing bacteria and fungus in your Schnauzer’s hair and skin can reduce or even eliminate the pesky bumps.”

THE SCHNAUZER COLLECTIVE

#10 Tea Tree Shampoo

Tea Tree has long been recommended as a possible treatment. Tea Tree oil is generally safe for Schnauzers, but needs to be diluted. This is accomplished easily by using a shampoo that contains high-quality tea tree oil diluted in the shampoo formulation.

John Paul Tea Tree Shampoo for Dogs is an effective and reasonably priced option.

#11 Oatmeal Shampoo

Quality shampoos containing natural ingredients such oatmeal are known to help with many skin issues, including Schnauzer bumps. They are also as safe for Schnauzers as they are for humans.

Pro Pet Works All Natural Organic Oatmeal Pet Shampoo is a gentle formulation that may address several skin issues such as allergies and itchiness in addition to Schnauzer bumps.

#12 Witch Hazel

Using an astringent to dry up the bumps can be effective. Witch hazel is an excellent example of this kind of treatment. You only need to apply it topically on the bumps to prevent a flare-up.

#13 Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen Peroxide can also effective in treating Comedone Syndrome. Be sure to use it sparingly since it can dry out your Schnauzer’s skin over time.

I have found that hydrogen peroxide is especially effective if the bump is oozing or has been nicked during grooming. It tends to “foam” and disinfect the bump, but also tends to reduce the bump if you are consistent.

#14 Rubbing Alcohol

Like witch hazel and hydrogen peroxide, rubbing alcohol has disinfectant and drying properties. Again, use it only on the bump itself and watch for signs of excessive drying.

The primary drawback with rubbing alcohol is that if the bump has any type of opening, this could sting your Schnauzer.

#15 Vinegar

White or Apple Cider vinegar are known to address and help to decrease bacteria. Using vinegar as a topical solution is another safe approach to treating Comedone Syndrome.

#16 DIY Dry Doggie Shampoo

In addition to bathing, using medicated commercial shampoos, and applying the astringents mentioned above, making your own dry shampoo for between-bath freshness is a fun, safe, and effective idea.

A DIY dry shampoo gives you the ability to soak up some of your Schnauzer’s extra oil and cut down on one of the suspected causes of Schnauzer bumps.

This shampoo contains essential oils that are known to be safe for Schnauzers, however, be sure to use only high-quality oils, and sparingly, in the amounts below.

• 1 cup of cornstarch
• 1/2 cup of baking soda
• 5-10 drops each of lavender and tea tree oils
• Place in a shaker or airtight container

I rub this “shampoo” into our Livi’s coat and use it as an opportunity to massage her has I go. I also use it sparingly in her beard and then brush through the beard with this Hertzko Mat Remover Grooming Comb (my absolute favorite beard grooming tool). She smells and looks like she has just visited the groomer.

#17 Soak in the Sunshine

Allow your Schnauzer to bask in the sunshine for a few hours during the day. It helps dry up Schnauzer bumps which is why they are less likely to develop during the sunny summer months.

#18 Change your Schnauzer’s Diet

Sometimes the condition develops as a result of food allergies. Switching to natural options and staying away from foods that contain fish, beef, and corn may eliminate the likelihood of recurrence. One of my top choices is The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Dehydrated Grain Free Dog Food.

High-quality, raw food diet can also help manage the condition. Some Schnauzer owners have observed a dramatic decrease in the comedones after changing to a raw food diet.

Please consult with your veterinarian before making an drastic changes to your Schnauzer’s diet.

“Allow your Schnauzer to bask in the sunshine for a few hours during the day.”

THE SCHNAUZER COLLECTIVE

#19 Vitamin A, E, and Zinc

The supplements don’t treat the condition, but may help to control it. Vitamin A supplements are particularly useful when used along with a medicated shampoo that has benzoyl peroxide. A dosage of 600-800 IU/kg should help.

A daily dose of supplements that contain vitamins A, and E, omega oils and zinc can help to keep a Schnauzer’ skin healthy.

Our Livi has thrived on this grain-free Multi-Vitamin Treat and Alaskan Fish Oil Chew Treat.

You may want to consult your veterinarian before administering any kind of supplements.

#20 Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids help normalize oil gland production of your Schnauzer’s skin and coat. In addition to the supplements I just mentioned above, this is an overall extremely healthy addition to her diet and Marine Phytoplankton Omega 3 EPA Powder is an excellent option.

Consult your veterinarian before administering any kind of supplements.

#21 Flea Treatment

Miniature Schnauzers with flea allergies are susceptible to Schnauzer bumps. Administering flea treatment every eight weeks may eliminate the condition.

Recovering from Schnauzer Bumps

While Comedone Syndrome is not very well understood, and there is technically no cure, rest assured that it is also not harmful to your canine friend.

However, it can cause Schnauzers to develop additional unhealthy skin issues and be challenging to diminish. Be alert to signs of infections or worrisome changes to the bumps.

With consistent monitoring combined with a variety of treatment options, your Schnauzer can live a long and comfortable life with the condition. As you experiment with the options above, you may be able to keep her bumps completely under control.

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