Affectionately called a Newf or Newfie by breed aficionados, the Newfoundland is a gentle giant of a working dog. Bred originally to haul in fishermen's nets and pull carts, these dogs have a heavy, water-repellent coat and love to swim. Newfoundlands don't have any greater tendency for skin problems than any other breed, and with a good diet and regular grooming they can go a lifetime without needing special attention. If your Newfoundland develops a problem like mange, it will take a whole lot of medicated dip to bring his skin back to good health.
-
Newfie Coat Care
-
Bred to spend a great deal of time in water, Newfoundlands have a heavy double coat. The outer coat is harsh and naturally oily to repel water. The undercoat is dense and fine to keep his skin dry and warm even after hours in cold water.
To keep his skin and coat healthy, groom your Newfoundland at least twice a week to remove dead hair from the profuse undercoat and keep the skin oils distributed. Use an undercoat rake or comb to pull out dead undercoat, and finish with a slicker brush. Trimming the fur around a Newfoundland's hindquarters, "armpits" and ears will help keep mats from forming and prevent yeast or bacteria from growing under the damp, matted fur.
Newfie Skin Problems
-
Skin problems are very common in dogs and most can be traced to allergies, parasites or bacterial skin infections. Dogs can get airborne or atopic allergies to pollen, mold and dust. Flea allergies are also fairly common, and are easily dealt with by using veterinary-prescribed flea repellents and by controlling fleas in your home and yard. Food allergies are less common but often manifest as itchy, irritated skin. Bacterial skin infections are often secondary to allergies and may require antibiotics as well as antibacterial shampoo or dip.
Before treating your Newfoundland with medicated dip, take her to your veterinarian to get an exact diagnosis. Most dips are harsh and shouldn't be used without a good reason.
Medicated Dips
-
Demodex or red mange are tiny parasites living in a dog's hair follicles, and sarcoptic mange or scabies mites burrow under the skin. Both can cause irritation, hair loss and intense itching and are symptomatic of a poor or stressed immune system. Your vet will probably suggest either amitraz (Mitoban) dip, or a lime and sulfur dip to kill the mites on your Newfoundland. These dips are typically applied to the dog several times a week and left to dry on the fur.
While fleas are most effectively prevented with prescription spot treatment, flea dips about every three weeks can also be effective.
Since medicated dips contain fairly harsh chemicals, use gloves and eye protection when applying them and try to prevent your Newf from licking her fur. Ask your veterinarian to let you know of any precautions you should take when using dips.
-