An Owner's Overview Of Dog Skin Problems

Dogs that repeatedly rub against furniture or continually lick and chew their coat may be suffering from a skin disorder. There are several types of dog skin problems that have some symptoms in common. Bald spots, swelling or scaly areas may indicate a disease. Other symptoms are lesions, rashes, redness, scabs or drainage. Any one, or a combination of these, should be checked by a veterinarian.

Epidermal bacterial infections are often a secondary symptom of another problem such as an allergy, hormone imbalance or parasites. Signs of a bacterial infection are red or ulcerated skin, yellow pustules, or crusted-over sores. A dog's chin is an area that commonly gets infected but the disease can locate itself anywhere on the body. Antiseptics and antibiotics are common treatments.

Fungal infections, like ringworm, appear as circular patches having crusty centers and is accompanied by hair loss. It is most often found on the dog's head or legs. Fungicidal shampoos and rinses are usually prescribed. The doctor may add other systemic or topical medications. Ringworm is contagious to humans. Luckily, treatment is painless and works well.

Ear mites and mange are two canine problems caused by parasites. Fleas are common trouble makers and a trigger for the disease called mange. Mange involves itching, crusty areas and hair loss, or itching, red and scaly dermis with round patches of hair loss. Dogs that obsessively scratch their ears likely have ear mites. The mites are hard to spot but there is sometimes dried blood or other discharge inside the ear. Treatment includes medicated dips or shampoos and possibly antibiotics.

Flea saliva is the most common allergen for dogs. An allergy brought on by fleas causes severe itching. "Hot spots" can develop which are specific areas that a dog licks and scratches continuously. Hot spots sometimes look normal or may appear moist and red. Other dog allergens are house dust, pollens, and molds, all of which can cause some type of dermatitis. Changing the dog's diet may alleviate an allergy. Other treatments are immuno-therapy, antihistamines and corticosteroids.

Hormones get out of balance in dogs when the pituitary, adrenal or thyroid glands over or under secrete its hormone. There is rarely itching involved. What is noticeable is thicker, thinner, or an off-color dermis, and hair loss over both sides of the body. Reproductive hormones can also trigger dog skin problems however, neutering is an effective treatment. Otherwise, a vet will address the primary gland illness (like hypothyroidism).

It is recommended that a dog's grooming products be those specifically made for canines. The winter season can trigger flaky, rough or dry patches on dogs and dog owners alike. Dermis trouble can also erupt when dogs do not get enough mental stimulation or physical activity. The symptom is usually obsessive licking on the legs.

There are things dog owners can do to prevent epidermal disease in their four-legged friends. Regular brushing to avoid hair matting, flea-control, the use of hypoallergenic shampoos, regular house cleaning, and a calm atmosphere are all preventative. The good news is that most dog skin problems are relatively easy to spot and are very treatable.