A Guide To Common Dog Skin Problems
A Guide To Common Dog Skin Problems
A Guide To Common Dog Skin Problems
Dogs which scratch more than usual likely have a skin disease. Fortunately, the majority of dog skin problems are easily cured after a quick trip to the vet.
A persistently itchy rash is likely allergic dermatitis. The symptoms can be partially relieved by corticosteroids, but the only way to remove symptoms completely is to identify and remove the allergen. Dogs are occasionally allergic to pollen, food, insect bites, and grooming products.
Scratching that is concentrated on the toes and/or ears is likely a yeast infection. Symptoms are itchy, discolored, or irritated shin on the ears and paws, where conditions are best for the yeast to grow. The most common treatment is a prescription topical cream. Occasionally a medicated bath or oral drug may be prescribed.
Superficial bacterial folliculitis is symptomized as bumps, sores, and scabs. It is easier to see in shorthaired breeds. Longhaired breeds may present with scaly skin and increased shedding. Superficial bacterial folliculitis commonly occurs simultaneously with other skin problems.
Impetigo is a kind of bacterial infection most common in puppies. The pus filled blisters it causes often break and crust over. It is easy to identify as the blisters usually form on the hairless portion of the abdomen. Impetigo can usually be treated with a topical solution.
Dogs with greasy skin and scales have seborrhea. Seborrhea is often a sign of another problem such as hormonal abnormalities or allergies, but it can sometimes be a lifelong genetic disease. If the underlying cause is treated symptoms will abate.
Ringworm is a fungus, not a worm, that causes circular lesions on the dog's head, paws, ears, or forelegs. Anti-fungal treatments are available and very effective.
Alopecia, or excessive shedding and hair loss, is always a sign of an underlying problem in dogs. Some shedding is natural, but when your dog's hair begins to thin it is a result of stress, nutritional deficiency, or another underlying disease.
Mange is a striking condition, causing intense itching, sores, hair loss, and red skin. The kind of mange determines the treatment.
Fleas are the most common skin problem among dogs. The average infestation will just cause itching, but severe infestations can cause anemia and blood loss. Fleas also carry other parasites, most commonly tapeworms. Dogs which are allergic to fleas will also develop allergic dermatitis and/or alopecia simultaneously.
The next most common parasite is the tick. The main risk from ticks is the transmittance of Lyme disease, as significant blood loss would require many ticks. Lyme disease is a potentially serious bacterial infection and there are vaccines available.
Acral lick granuloma is a skin condition caused by excessive and obsessive licking of one spot. The area is unable to heal and becomes painful, causing the dog to lick more. Acral lick granuloma is treated by either a foul tasting topical solution or a collar to discourage licking.
Hot spots are a common with dog skin problems. They are small areas of irritated, inflamed, and red skin. Treatment includes addressing the underlying cause.
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