Skin conditions are a common problem in dogs. Causes may be hereditary, environmental or dietary. Skin conditions are uncomfortable for the dog, and many skin conditions are a symptom of an underlying disorder. Though some conditions can be treated at home, many skin problems require prescription medication. Veterinary diagnosis and treatment is important.
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Mange
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Mange is caused by an infestation of tiny mites on the dog's skin. The two types of mange are sarcoptic mange, called canine scabies, and demodectic mange, called red mange. Symptoms of mange include frequent scratching, red skin or sores and bald patches. A veterinarian can treat sarcoptic mange with a topical product and demodectic mange with a medicated dip.
Allergic Dermatitis
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Dogs can suffer from environmental allergies, such as pollen or cigarette smoke, or from dietary allergies. Allergies often cause itching, which leads to scratching, rubbing the face and chewing the paws. One of the most common allergens in dogs is the saliva from a flea bite. This causes a condition known as flea bite dermatitis. A vet can perform an allergy test to determine what your dog is allergic to. The best way to treat allergies is to avoid the causes.
Hot Spots
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Hot spots are caused by excessive scratching or licking and appear as raw, red patches on the skin. Treatment of hot spots involves identifying the underlying cause. Often, allergies are the culprit.
Yeast Infection
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Yeast infections are usually a symptom of an underlying illness or disorder that has weakened the immune system. Infections usually show up in the ears or between the toes. Yeast infections are treated with a topical cream or shampoo and by identifying and treating the underlying cause of the weakened immune system.
Ringworm
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Ringworm is caused by a fungus and named for the distinctive round patches it causes. Ringworm is highly contagious but easily treated with antifungal creams or shampoos. Humans can contract ringworm from dogs.
Skin Tumors
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Skin tumors appear as small lumps under the skin. Though some are benign, it is important to have a veterinarian perform a biopsy to determine whether the tumor is cancerous.
Folliculitis and Seborrhea
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Folliculitis affects the hair follicles of a dog. It is caused by a bacterial infection, and symptoms include a dull coat, scaly skin, bumps and sores. Mild cases are often treated with a topical ointment, while more severe cases may require an oral antibiotic.
Seborrhea causes excessive flaking of the skin, similar to dandruff. There are two types of seborrhea. Primary seborrhea is hereditary, while secondary seborrhea is the result of an underlying cause. The most common causes are allergies and nutritional deficiencies.
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