Types of Skin Disorders in Dogs

The skin and coat of a dog are good indicators for its general state of health, and dog owners must intervene as soon as a skin condition is noticed. The majority of skin disorders, including seborrheic dermatitis, eczema, demodetic mange and ringworm, are associated with an impaired immune system. Many skin conditions take time to cure and dog owners must be prepared to be patient while the dog slowly recovers.

  1. Ringworm

    • Ringworm is caused by a fungus and not by worms. It is a highly contagious infection that can easily spread to other pets and to humans. Ringworm is typically seen as patchy lesions on the dog's head, ears, forelimbs and paws. The lesions cause circular bald areas that have a crusted appearance. In some cases, the middle of these naked areas has a reddish look. In severe cases of ringworm, the animal's entire body may become infected.

    Eczema

    • Moist eczema appears as angry raw patches on the dog's skin. This skin condition is caused by a bacterial infection and can develop within hours. Moist eczema may be found anywhere on the animal, but is most frequently seen around the anus, on the rump or on the inside flaps of the dog's ears. Moist eczema is normally associated with warmer weather, and is more prevalent in dogs with matted coats and those that remain wet for extended periods of time. Dirty dogs are also more susceptible to this skin condition. Moist eczema is also caused by tick and flea bites, and inflammation caused from clipping and associated grooming activities.

    Seborrhoeic Dermatitis

    • Seborrhoeic dermatitis is caused by over-productive hair follicles and oil glands on the dog's skin. Seborrhoeic dermatitis is most prevalent over the face and head, as oil glands in these areas are substantial. This skin condition is caused by yeast, and produces symptoms that include a waxy and often red skin. Seborrhoeic dermatitis will also cause an inflamed scalp.

    Demodectic Mange

    • This mange, also referred to simply as red mange, is caused by the demodectic mange mite. The mite is a cigar-shaped parasite that lives in and on an affected animal's hair follicles. Demodectic mange is most prevalent in younger dogs with immature immune systems, but can be found in dogs of all ages if their immune system is impaired.