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.

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.

Another common parasite is the tick. Appreciable blood loss is rare as it would take many ticks, but they do carry Lyme disease. Lyme disease is a potentially serious infection. Dogs can be vaccinated for Lyme disease.

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.

Many dog skin problems cause hot spots. Hot spots are red, irritated, and inflamed spots on a dog's skin.