Common Dog Skin Problems

Skin irritations are one of the most common dog health problems. You may notice your dog itching or scratching itself all the time. There may also be open wounds, hair loss, and evidence of fleas or other parasites. It is important to identify what is causing your dog's skin problems so they can be properly treated and help your dog return to good health.

Hotspots are moist sores that often develop after the skin is irritated or cut. If the area is wet, bacteria start multiplying and infect the area. Keep the dog away from moisture (wet grass, pools, baths, etc.) If it hasn't cleared on its own after approximately two weeks, or the sore(s) are especially prevalent, your veterinarian can give you oral antibiotics and antihistamines and shave off the fur to allow it to dry out more.

Another common dog skin problem is ringworm. This actually has nothing to do with worms - it is caused by a fungus named Microsporum canis. The most noticeable symptom will be round patches of hair loss. Ringworm should be treated promptly as it can be passed to other dogs. Some types are even able to infect humans. The veterinarian may prescribe an antifungal called Griseofulvin. There are also shampoos and dips available.

Dog allergies are also a cause of skin problems. These can be very difficult to identify because the dog could be allergic to anything in its environment. A frequent allergic reaction occurs from flea saliva after the dog is bitten. The dog's immune system recognizes that there is a problem and starts to fight off the problem. This causes dog itching, scratching and biting. Other potential sources of infections are yeasts and bacteria.

Other allergies may be to grass, mites, or any number of substances that can be found in a dog's surroundings. Skin and blood tests may be able to pinpoint the cause. There are antihistamines, baths, sprays and ointments that may help sooth the effects of allergies. Since there are no cures for allergies, you will need to try to help your dog avoid the trigger as much as possible.

Other causes of dog skin problems include parasites (fleas, ticks, mites, etc), poor nutrition, and behavioral disorders. Poor nutrition can leave your dog with an unfair advantage when it comes to fighting off skin irritants and complications such as sores or wounds. A healthy dog with a healthy immune system can combat these irritants easier and quicker than a dog eating regular commercial dog food with no additional supplements. A dog supplement can make a huge difference in keeping your dog healthy.

A great way to keep your dog free of many skin irritations is to keep him healthy - from the inside out. Feeding a quality dog supplement every day can keep your dog healthy. Proud Dog Complete Wellness is an all natural dog supplement which includes all of the needed vitamins, minerals and nutrients for your dog to stay healthy. This supplement is perfect to use with the BARF diet or along with feeding a commercial dog food. Simply sprinkle Proud Dog Complete Wellness on anything your dog eats, just once a day, and you know your dog has gotten the essential vitamins and minerals he needs to be as healthy as possible.