Most dogs suffer from some type of skin condition at least once in their lives. For other dogs, skin afflictions are a constant source of irritation. Skin conditions in dogs have multiple causes. These can include parasites, allergies and mental health issues. To treat your dog's skin condition effectively, you must determine what is causing the problem and then treat the skin condition accordingly.
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Parasite Control
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Parasites--including fleas, ticks, lice and mites--are the most common cause of skin problems in dogs. The most effective step you can take to help your dog's skin problems is to apply a monthly topical parasite repellent prescribed by your veterinarian.
Veterinary-prescribed products, such as Frontline, Advantage and Revolution, are highly effective and generally safe. If your pet is already suffering from an infestation of topical parasites, these products can help clear the infestation. Your veterinarian can recommend which product will be best for your dog's individual case.
Bacterial Infection
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Bacterial skin infections are also common in dogs. An infection occurs when the base of the hair follicle becomes infected. It is often secondary to another skin condition, such as allergies or parasites. This is usually most visible on areas of the dog's body where hair is thin, such as on the pet's stomach.
A four-week course of antibiotics is usually necessary to clear the infection. The underlying cause of the condition must also be identified and treated.
Allergies
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Dogs can develop different kinds of allergies--contact, food and respiratory--that will manifest themselves in skin conditions. Allergy testing may be necessary to determine what substances are causing the dog's reaction. These substances can then be eliminated or controlled in the dog's food and environment.
Steroids and antihistamines are often prescribed until the allergens can be identified and managed. Anti-itch shampoos and fatty acid supplements are sometimes used to help alleviate symptoms.
Obsessive-Compulsive Licking
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Obsessive-compulsive licking is a mental health issue and is exhibited in dogs with some frequency. The licking may lead to hairless spots that can become raw and infected. Your veterinarian will likely prescribe antibiotics to clear the infection and may bandage the area.
A prescription medication, such as Prozac, may be administered to help alter the dog's behavior. The veterinarian may also recommend that you try to find the cause of the dog's anxiety and alleviate this, to eliminate the need for lifelong medication.
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