Demodex Mange in a Dog

Demodectic or demodex mange, often misspelled "demadex" mange, is a skin problem caused by any of three mites in the Demodex genus. Seen mostly in puppies, this type of mange is treatable.

  1. Types

    • Demodectic mange causes two types of mange, localized and generalized. In localized, the mange is located at only one spot on the dog, and in generalized, the mange is all over the head or body.

    Symptoms

    • Puppies or dogs suffering from demodex mange have bald or balding patches and bright-pink or red skin. Eventually, the itchy skin becomes covered in sores because the dog cannot stop scratching it, according to "Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook."

    Treatment

    • Infected dogs or puppies are given dips or medications, such as amitraz, milbemycin oxime or ivermectin. However, ivermectin should not be given to any collie dog breeds due to a potentially lethal allergy.