Pemphigus Foliaceus is one of a group of diseases known as the pemphigus complex and occurs when the body produces antibodies that attack the outer layer of skin. Because this disease affects the outermost skin layer, it is easy to diagnose and recognise.

This condition generally manifests as a scaly texture on the skin which then becomes blisters that quickly rupture to cause scabs and pus filled sores. Although these blisters come to a head and drain rapidly and may be difficult to find, the disease has a distinctive look making it easy to identify. Although easily identified, these symptoms may also be due to other influences, such as new medications and more serious issues such as systemic lupus erythematosus and skin cancers which may be fatal to your dog if left untreated..
Infection of the sores is the highest risk with pemphigus foliaceus, which may cause more significant problems, but theses cases are rare and the disease is not considered particularly dangerous.

Treatment of the diseases that fall under the pemphigus complex classification is usually done through the use of corticosteroids and followed with secondary immune suppressing medication to prevent the body from producing the antibodies that mistakenly attack the skin. Although immune suppressants are effective, they can place the dog at risk for other communicable diseases and it is important to monitor their health with regular check ups to ensure problems are treated early.

Though common in all breeds, this disease is more commonly seen in Akitas, Dachshunds, Doberman Pinschers and Bearded Collies.