What Causes Skin Problems in Dogs?

Something as simple as a scratch can be sign that a dog needs help. Itching, irritation, sores and hair loss are a few common symptoms of skin problems in dogs. Pollen and parasites can cause the conditions, but some dogs can experience problems as severe as cancerous skin tumors. Online pet store The Pet Center breaks down dog skin problems into six types of causes: environments, nutrition, parasites, allergies, neurological and infections.

  1. Environment and Allergens

    • Like in humans, allergens can also cause problems for dogs. Pollen and chemicals, like those found in grooming products, can cause allergic reactions on a dog's skin. Environmental factors, such as excess moisture, can also cause problems like moist eczema, also known as hot spot. The easiest solution, once a pet owner has determined his dog has an allergy, is to remove the dog from the allergen's environment or remove the allergen from the dog's environment.

    Nutrition

    • Nutritional deficiencies can cause skin problems in dogs. Making sure a dog has a proper diet to prevent skin conditions should be a "no brainer," according to The Pet Center. Dog owners who buy dry food should make sure the first listed ingredient on a bag is some type of meat. The Pet Center cautions that many of the more expensive pet foods don't provide a noticeable benefit to a dog's coat or skin.

    Infections

    • Folliculitis and impetigo are two types of bacterial infections that can cause blisters, sores, scabs and other skin problems in dogs. Impetigo is most common in puppies whereas folliculitis is more often linked with other skin conditions. Some dogs also have problems with yeast infections. Pet owners can treat skin infections with antibacterial ointments and topical solutions.

    Ringworm

    • Lesions surrounded by ring-like inflamed or scaly skin could be the result of ringworm. A fungus causes the skin condition, meaning owners can treat it with an anti-fungal product. Puppies are more susceptible to the skin problem than older dogs.

    Mange

    • Excessive scratching and hair loss, most often on the face and legs, are a few symptoms of mange. Parasitic mites cause the skin problem in dogs. Sarcoptic mange, also known as scabies, can also affect cats, ferrets, wild animals and humans, according to Pet Education. Solutions include clipping the hair or chemical products, as well as simpler topical solutions and other ointments.

    Fleas

    • Dog owners can detect fleas--often too small to see--by looking for their droppings or eggs. The insects can cause problems ranging from itching and irritation to anemia caused by blood sucking. Along with giving their dogs topical solutions or oral medication, dog owners should also thoroughly clean their dog's living area to prevent further problems.

    Ticks

    • Ticks are another parasite that can cause skin problems and, like fleas, anemia. They can also induce Lyme's disease. Gently remove a tick with tweezers then dispose of the insect.

    Tumors

    • One of the most serious skin problems to look for are hard lumps, which could be tumors, according to Pet WebMD. Tumors, which can be cancerous, need a veterinarian's attention. Vets might be able remove the tumor, depending on its size.

    Neurological

    • In some cases, dogs induce skin problems on themselves. The Pet Center says when veterinarians and pet owners rule out all other causes for skin problems, they'll accredit it to a neurological impulse. The most common type is licking, in which dogs lap at their skins so much they cause irritation. The cause of the erratic behavior could result from an array of reasons, such as stress, boredom or obsession with a small bump or abrasion they feel a need to nurse.