Grooming and coat
How do I care for the facial wrinkles on a flat faced breed?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
Wiping the folds around the nose and eyes with a damp cloth daily, drying them thoroughly afterward, prevents the moisture buildup that makes wrinkles prone to irritation in breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs. Skipping the drying step is the most common reason a well cleaned fold still develops a problem.
Why wrinkles need daily attention
Deep facial folds trap moisture, food debris, and drool against the skin far more than a flat area of coat would, and this warm, damp environment lets bacteria and yeast build up faster than on the rest of the body, which is why breeds with pronounced wrinkles need this specific area checked far more often than a typical brush out schedule.
A simple daily routine
A soft, damp cloth wiped gently into each fold, followed by patting completely dry with a separate clean cloth, removes debris and moisture before it has a chance to sit against the skin overnight. Doing this once a day, or twice for dogs that drool heavily, is usually enough to keep the area comfortable.
Signs the routine needs backup
Redness, an unpleasant smell coming specifically from a fold, or the dog rubbing its face on furniture more than usual suggests the daily wipe is not keeping up, and a vet visit can confirm whether the skin needs a specific treatment rather than just more frequent cleaning.
Key takeaways
- Facial folds trap moisture and debris, making them prone to irritation without regular attention.
- A daily damp wipe followed by thorough drying is the core routine for keeping wrinkles comfortable.
- Redness, odor from a specific fold, or increased face rubbing suggests it is time for a vet check.