Canine Fungal Infection

Dog owners hate to see their dogs suffer. Fortunately, if your pooch is showing signs of a canine fungal infection, there are treatments available to make her comfortable once again. Diagnosing the infection is the first step to finding a treatment, so pay attention to the possible symptoms of a fungal infection and visit your veterinarian right away if you suspect your dog has a canine fungal infection.

  1. Symptoms

    • Dogs with fungal infections will exhibit such behaviors as excessive scratching or licking of the affected area, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). They may also experience dandruff-like flakes, hair loss, or scaly patches on their skin or paws. Areas that are most likely to be affected include ear canals, paws, and skin folds, although a canine fungal infection can be present anywhere on a dog's body.

    Yeast

    • Just like humans, yeast is a fungus that occurs naturally on a dog's skin, according to Doctors of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) News Magazine. However, also just like humans, some dogs may be oversensitive to the yeast fungus and have difficulty keeping the fungus in check. The ears and ear canals of dogs are most likely to be affected by a yeast infection, although dogs can also develop this type of canine fungal infection in the rectum or vagina as well.

    Ringworm

    • Despite the implication of the name, ringworm isn't a worm infection - it is a fungal infection that can affect both canines and humans. According to the ASPCA, dogs with a ringworm fungal infection will typically have bald spots or lesions on affected areas. Some dogs react more strongly than others to this canine fungal infection, developing large hairless patches all over their bodies. Other dogs may have the infection but show very few, if any, symptoms.

    Treatments

    • Treatment will vary depending upon the type of canine fungal infection your dog has, so it is important to take your pooch to the veterinarian for a proper diagnosis. Treatments may include antifungal ointments and/or oral medications or medicated shampoo. For dogs who develop yeast infections, changes in their diets may be necessary to prevent future outbreaks.

    Warning

    • Yeast fungal infections are not considered contagious. However, ringworm infections are highly contagious and can infect not only the other pets in your household, but it's human inhabitants, too. While your dog undergoes treatment for his canine fungal infection, be sure to follow any guidelines your veterinarian gives you regarding bedding and toys. And always wash your hands after contact with your pet.