There are many different skin disorders that can cause your dog to have red, itchy or irritated skin. Some disorders may be accompanied by pustules, scaling, oozing and hair loss. Many of these problems can be caused by either primary or secondary bacterial infections. Your veterinarian can run tests to determine what is causing your dog's skin condition and can prescribe a course of treatment.
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Pyoderma
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Pyoderma is a bacterial infection that can cause itchy red lesions to develop on your dog. Pet Place indicates that pyoderma is usually caused by the staphylococcus bacteria if it is found on the surface of the dog's skin. Pyoderma that is underneath the dog's skin will need to be examined by a veterinarian who can perform tests to find out what kind of bacteria is causing the infection and what antibiotic will be the most effective.
Impetigo
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According to Pet Education, impetigo is a bacterial skin infection caused by the staphylococcus bacteria. Puppies under one year of age are susceptible to this disease, but some breeds such as dobermans and shar-peis may carry impetigo into adulthood. The telltale signs of impetigo include small, pus-filled spots on the belly and under the chin. These pockets can break open and form crusts or scales. Impetigo is rarely life threatening and sometimes will clear up by itself. It can be treated by applying hydrogen- or benzoyl-peroxide cream once a day.
Malassezia
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Malassezia is a yeast infection caused by the malassezia pachydermatis yeast, according to Pet Education. Under normal circumstances, malassezia can be found on the bodies of most dogs, but dogs that are genetically predisposed to the condition or have an underlying bacterial infection can develop a yeast infection of the skin. The symptoms are itching, oily or scaly skin, a foul odor, redness, blackening of the skin (hyperpigmentation) and hair loss. The dog may also scratch his ears a great deal if the malassezia infection has moved into the ear canal. This infection can be diagnosed through veterinary testing. It can be treated through the use of medicated shampoos or topical (skin) ointments.
Seborrhea
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Seborrhea can cause flaky, scaly skin, as well as itching and hair loss. According to Pet Education, seborrhea occurs when too much keratin (dead skin scale) builds up on the surface of the dog's skin. Specially medicated shampoos can help to control the buildup of dead skin cells.
Eczema
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The Dog Breed Info website indicates that eczema is caused by a bacterial infection. This disorder is also called canine hot spots or moist dermatitis. The symptoms of eczema are localized spots on the dog's rectum, rear or under his ears that itch and redden. These spots may also become raw and form pus or scabs. The onset of eczema can happen suddenly, usually occurring within one to two hours. The infection can be treated by shaving around the wound and applying topical antibiotics to the hot spot.
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