A Guide To 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.

Allergic dermatitis presents as a rash which the dog scratches at relentlessly. Corticosteroids can be prescribed to relieve the itch, but identifying and removing the allergen is ultimately the most effective treatment plan. Dogs can be allergic to food, grooming products, pollen, and insect bites.

If your dog is scratching primarily at the ears and/or toes, a yeast infection is the likely culprit. Symptoms include irritated, itchy, or discolored skin most common on the ears and paws. A topical cream can be prescribed. This is sufficient most of the time, but medicated baths or oral drugs are also options.

Sores, scabs, and bumps might be superficial bacterial folliculitis. Shorthaired dogs present more obvious symptoms, but longhaired dogs may have increased shedding and scaly skin. Other skin problems often occur simultaneously with superficial bacterial folliculitis.

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.

Seborrhea causes dogs to develop greasy skin and scales. This is occasionally a genetic disease that the dog will have for life, but most often it is a sign of an underlying issue such as allergies or hormonal abnormalities. The underlying cause must be treated for symptoms to abate.

Ringworm, contrary to its name, is a fungus and not a worm. It causes circular lesions on a dog's paws, forelegs, ears, or head. Very effective anti-fungal treatments are available.

Excessive shedding and hair loss is called alopecia and is a symptom of another underlying problem. Nutritional deficiency, stress, or an underlying disease can cause thinning of the coat.

Mange is a classic skin problem for dogs. It is caused by mites and the symptoms include sores, intense itching, red skin, and hair loss. The treatment varies based on the type of mange.

The most common skin problem for dogs is fleas. Most infestations just cause itching, but some cause blood loss and anemia. Tapeworms and other parasites are carried by fleas as well. Some dogs are allergic to fleas and will develop alopecia and/or allergic dermatitis simultaneously.

Ticks are another common parasite. A dogs will rarely pick up enough to cause serious blood loss, but they do spread Lyme disease, a potentially serious bacterial infection. Vaccines for Lyme disease are available.

Excessive, obsessive licking of one spot continuously will cause acral lick granuloma. The area is not able to heal due to the repeated licking. It becomes painful, exacerbating the problem. The only way to treat is to discourage the dog from licking through either a cone collar or a bad tasting topical solution.

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.