Common Skin Diseases in Dachshunds and Chihuahuas

Chihuahuas and dachshunds can experience breed-specific skin problems. Some skin diseases can be genetic or experienced by chihuahuas and dachshunds, because both breeds have tendencies for skin disorders. Dogs with skin disorder tendencies experience more intense itching, redness, hair loss and bacterial infections due to skin sensitivity. Visit the veterinarian if you suspect your chihuahua or dachshund has a skin disease.

  1. Contact Dermatitis

    • Irritated red skin and hair loss are often symptoms of contact dermatitis. Contact dermatitis is a form of skin allergy disorder that is concentrated in one area of the skin that has come into contact with an allergen or offending substance. Once the offending allergen has been discovered and removed, oral and topical medications must be administered. Underlying bacterial infections must be treated, too.

    Acanthosis Nigricans

    • Acanthosis nigricans is a condition seen almost entirely in dachshunds, however it has been present in chihuahuas and other dog breeds. Primary acanthosis nigricans is considered hereditary and shows up in the dog within the first year of life. More commonly seen secondary acanthosis nigricans may come from skin friction in especially obese dogs, skin allergies or sex hormone imbalances. The disease begins with the darkening of skin beneath the arm pit area. The darkening grows to the abdomen, chest, groin, forelimbs, hocks, ear flaps and around the eyes, according to Healthy Pet U online. Primary acanthosis nigricans is non-curable but it may be treated by antiseborrheic shampoos or topical ointments. Feed the dog healthy, high-quality diets and provide exercise to prevent obesity. Monitor for endocrine disorders or allergies to help correct such conditions if they develop.

    Allergic Dermatitis

    • Allergies often cause skin problems for chihuahuas and dachshunds. Pollen, dust, mold and other inhalant allergies could cause itching, scaling or skin pigmentation changes. If your dog scratches often, has extremely dry, flaky skin or red, swollen lesions, contact your veterinarian immediately for a diagnosis. Treatment for allergies may include medicated shampoos, topical ointments, antihistamines, a strict diet, nutritional supplements or allergy shots. Chihuahuas and dachshunds can be allergic to a number of human-made inhalants also, such as perfumes and cigarette smoke. If the dog has choking and coughing symptoms along with the dry, red itching skin, avoid the activity around your dog.

    Mange

    • Mange in dachshunds can be considered serious. Generalized mange is thought to be inherited in dachshunds and those affected should not be bred, nor should their parents continue to breed, according to Net Places. Mange occurs when mites cause patches of hair loss and infected areas that become scaly, inflamed and infected. Chihuahuas are among dog breeds that are susceptible to demodectic mange disease. Microscopic mites invade hair follicles and the skin. A variety of anti-parasitic drugs, topical ointments, medicated shampoos and garlic home remedies can help treat your dog's mange symptoms. Seek your veterinarian's advice.