August 2013
“Puppy Strangles” is the everyday term for juvenile cellulitis, also called juvenile pyoderma. The disease results from a temporary compromise of the puppy’s immune system causing nodules or pustules on the skin. It usually occurs between 3 weeks and 4 months of age. These skin lesions usually arise on the face or ears. Lymph nodes or skin around the face may be swollen. The puppy may have tender skin or joint pain. This disease is not life-threatening but can be painful. Treatment is aimed at controlling pain and inflammation, preventing or treating secondary skin infections, and preventing scarring.
This is not a hereditary disease nor is it infectious. Puppies which have juvenile cellulitis almost never have it a second time.