The presence of yeast fungi on your dog's skin is normal and usually causes few problems. Dog yeast skin infections occur when the yeast grows in abnormal numbers and irritates the skin. Yeast can infect small areas or the entire body.
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Causes
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Any underlying disease that weakens your dog's immune system or irritates his skin can allow the yeast to grow in number.
Symptoms
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Dog yeast skin infections often begin with itching. Other symptoms include hair loss, redness and blackening of the skin. The skin may emit a foul odor and appear thick, crusty and oily.
Risk
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Breeds that are more prone to yeast infections include the Maltese, West Highland white terrier, basset hound, silky terrier, Shetland sheepdog, dachshund, cocker spaniel, lhasa apso and chihuahua.
Treatment
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Miconazole cream can treat mild yeast skin infections in dogs, and oral drugs such as ketoconazole or itraconazole can treat more severe cases. The underlying condition causing the yeast infection also needs to be treated or the problem will recur.
Considerations
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Yeast infections in dogs are often misdiagnosed as skin allergies. Have your veterinarian check your dog for a yeast infection if allergy treatment is ineffective.
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