Dogs often develop skin rashes, hot spots and other skin conditions. Some types of skin conditions in dogs can cause hair loss, hyperpigmentation and other skin problems. The dachshund has an increased incidence of developing a skin condition known as acanthosis nigricans. This condition occurs almost exclusively in dachshunds and may lead to secondary infections of the skin.
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Identification
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Skin problems in the dachshund may be the result of a genetic condition, or they may occur from flea allergies, mange, yeast infections or acanthosis nigricans. Any breed of dog can be affected by skin problems, but the dachshund is one breed of dog that has a genetic predisposition to skin conditions.
Types
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A yeast infection is a common cause of skin problems in dachshunds. A yeast infection causes the dog's skin to become crusty, smelly and often itchy. According to the Mar Vista Animal Medical Center, a yeast infection may affect part or all of a dog's body. Certain breeds of dogs are at an increased risk of developing yeast infections. These include the dachshund, West Highland white terrier, cocker spaniel, silky terrier, Australian terrier, Maltese, poodle, Chihuahua, Shetland sheepdog, Lhasa apso and basset hound.
Another skin condition that affects dachshunds is acanthosis nigricans. The symptoms of this condition are lesions that are bilaterally symmetric, hair loss and hyperpigmentation. Yeast infections may occur as a secondary skin infection with this condition. The areas of the body most commonly affected by acanthosis nigricans are the neck, groin, abdomen, perineum and hocks.
Allergies can also cause symptoms of skin conditions in dogs. Most allergic reactions in dogs result in skin problems such as itching.
Causes
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Dachshunds are genetically predisposed to yeast infections and acanthosis nigricans. Other skin conditions such as flea allergy dermatitis, which is caused by an allergy to the saliva of the flea, may occur in dachshunds. Allergic reactions may cause skin problems in dachshunds as well as other breeds of dogs. Inhalant allergies may cause symptoms in dogs and are often the result of pollen, dust or mold. Mange is another cause of skin problems that may occur in dachshunds.
Diagnosis
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In order to diagnose skin problems in your dachshund, your veterinarian may perform a series of diagnostic tests as well as a physical examination. During the physical examination, your veterinarian will take a full medical history of your dog's health. Diagnostic tests such as skin scrapings may be performed to determine the cause of skin problems in your dog. Many skin problems in dogs can be diagnosed based on the appearance of the skin.
Treatment
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The treatment for skin problems in dachshunds may include medicated shampoos, topical ointments and oral medications. This will depend on the cause of the skin problem in your dog. If bacterial infections are present, the dog may require a course of antibiotics to eliminate infection. Dogs that are diagnosed with mange may require regular skin scrapings to treat the condition. If your dog has skin problems, consult your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
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