Dogs might suffer from skin disorders for a number of reasons. In some cases, the disorder is hereditary. Some skin diseases are highly contagious and might be contracted from other pets or the environment. Other skin problems are a symptom of an underlying condition. All skin disorders require veterinary diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible to prevent complications.
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Mange
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Tiny mites cause mange, a common skin disorder in dogs. Dogs might suffer from sarcoptic or demodectic mange. Symptoms include constant scratching, sores and patchy hair loss.
Demodicosis, also called "red mange," requires treatment with parasiticide products to destroy the mite population. Usually, the veterinarian or groomer will shave the dog prior to treatment so the medicated product can reach all areas of the skin. Most cases of demodectic mange are treated with a Mitaban dip, which should only be applied by a professional. Treatments might last several months before the dog is free of mites.
Sarcoptic mange, also called canine scabies, is sometimes treated with a monthly topical solution of selamectin. In some cases, the dog is shaved and treated with a medicated shampoo and a parasite-killing dip.
Mange treatment also includes disinfecting the dog's bedding with an insecticide such as permethrin.
Flea Bite Dermatitis
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Dog allergies are common, and symptoms often include itching, rubbing at the face or chewing on the paws. The most frequent culprit is flea bite dermatitis, in which the dog is allergic to flea saliva. In this case, the dog might chew at the base of his tail, causing hair loss and sores.
Treatment of flea bite dermatitis involves eradicating the fleas by treating both the dog and the environment. Options for flea treatment include shampoos, powders, dips, foggers, collars and topical "spot-on" medications. A veterinarian can recommend the appropriate course of treatment for your dog.
Yeast Infection
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Canine yeast infections primarily affect the ears and between the toes. The affected skin might be red, crusty or discolored. Minor yeast infections can be treated with a topical cream or miconazole shampoo. Infections that are more serious might require oral medication.
Yeast infections are often triggered by a weakened immune system, so it is important to have your veterinarian diagnose the underlying cause.
Ringworm
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Despite the name, ringworm is a fungus rather than a worm. The most common symptom is a distinctive round bald spot with irritated skin. Ringworm is highly contagious and can be passed between dogs and humans. According to WebMD's pet health website, puppies are more susceptible to ringworm than adult dogs.
Treatment includes an anti-fungal shampoo or topical cream.
Hot Spots
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Hot spots are small, round lesions on the skin usually caused by excessive scratching, licking or biting. Hot spots have a number of possible underlying causes, including allergies. Hot spots should be kept clean, and the dog should be prevented from licking the area. Use of an Elizabethan collar may be necessary.
The only cure for hot spots is diagnosis and treatment of the underlying cause. A veterinarian might perform an allergy test.
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