Mange vs. Harness Irritation in Dogs

Mange is caused by a parasitic mite, and harness irritation can be caused by a problematic harness. Both conditions can lead to hair loss, raw skin, scabbing and itching. Mange, depending on the type of mite, may show characteristic skin patterns, whereas harness irritation usually occurs directly under the harness itself. Occasionally, harness irritation is caused by a skin allergy. Secondary inflammation or infections can develop from either mange or harness irritation as the skin becomes damaged by itching and chewing.

  1. Causes

    • Mites that cause mange can burrow into the skin, live in the ears or the hair follicles, or stay in skin oil glands, depending on the type of mite. Five types of mange affect dogs: sarcoptic, otodectic, cheyletiellosis, demodicosis and trombiculosis. Harness irritation may be from an improperly fitted harness or trapped environmental particles or moisture under the harness. Sometimes, metals in the harness may cause a skin reaction or allergy, which can cause an itchy rash near the harness.

    Symptoms

    • Dogs suffering from sarcoptic mange become intensely itchy, with skin sores forming on the abdomen, chest, ears, elbows and legs. Harness irritation is usually not seen in these anatomical areas. Signs of cheyletiellosis, also known as walking dandruff, appear along the back as flaky skin and mild itching. Harness irritation can appear at the top shoulder region, but not along the entire back. Demodectic mange usually appears in patches on the face of puppies, not near any of the harness contact points.

    Treatment

    • Mange should be diagnosed by a veterinarian. Skin scrapings and sticky tape may be used to collect mites for microscopic diagnosis. The dog's environment, the dog himself and sometimes you may need to be treated for these parasites. Treat harness irritation by removing your dog's harness, then bathing and brushing him to remove seeds, burrs, dirt and hair clumps that may have become trapped under the harness. If open sores have developed, you should consult your veterinarian for proper treatment of these areas.

    Prevention

    • When removing your dog's harness, check often for proper fit and possible trapped irritants. To check harness fit, measure the largest part of your dog's girth while he is standing. Usually, girth is measured around the chest, about an inch behind the elbow. The chest of the harness is proportioned to the size of the girth. Mange is prevented by keeping your dog away from infested animals. The mite is transferred by direct animal-to-animal contact or contaminated bedding.