Causes Of Dog Skin Conditions

Dog skin conditions are easy for most owners to miss, since most breeds of canines are covered with a generous coat that can mask the slightest problems. Many of us see a dog itching itself and feel that it's just something that dogs do. The truth is that your dog shouldn't really be itching themselves, or showing signs of skin irritation very often. A little itching is normal, but frequent itching either indicates either hereditary, environmental, or self-inflicted dog skin conditions that you should help them with.

Hereditary

The list of minor and chronic hereditary skin conditions that affect dogs is too long to mention. Just keep in mind that each breed has a certain level of skin conditions that come with them. These hereditary dog skin conditions may come in the form of thinner layers of skin cells in certain areas, such as the pelvic area, armpit area and behind the ears.

Environmental

Like hereditary skin problems; your dog can be prone to irritation from their surroundings. Most canines have a strong immune system to plant pollens, but can still be irritated by them. Problems occur when your dog scratches themselves, then gets pollen or other environmental allergens in the wound. Also mosquitoes, black flies, ticks and fleas not only bite; but open up wounds in your dog's skin that invites infection.

Self-Inflicted

Self-inflicted dog skin conditions can work alongside both hereditary and environmental. Prolonged licking of the skin, scratching and rubbing can cause irritation, but also exposes your dog to environmental factors or exacerbating hereditary problems in their skin.

Solutions

Solutions will range from lotions, anti-bacterial creams, shampoos and even oral medication -- depending on the irritation. Keep a close eye on your dog and examine their skin often. Just run your hand against the direction your dog's fur lays, so you expose the skin. Check for fleas, ticks, deep cuts, or any other sign of irritation so you can attack the problem right away.