Skin Problems in Dogs
One of the most common health problems that afflict dogs are skin disorders. Canine skin problems can be attributed to a number of factors including bacterial and fungal infections.
Certain allergies or exposure to parasites like fleas and ear mites might result in the skin infection. Your dog may respond to the skin problems by constantly licking, scratching or chewing the affected area. Based on the severity and the nature of the problem, the skin disorders in dogs can either be self limiting or be a chronic problem.
Skin problems in dogs are categorized into bacterial skin infections, fungal or yeast skin infections, allergic skin disorders and infections caused by parasites. Certain dog breeds are prone to suffering from skin problems.
Bacterial skin problems also known as Staphylococcal pyoderma are caused by the Staph bacteria (Staphylococci). This infection usually affects the upper body and the ears of the dog. Severe itching along with itchy pus filled blisters is one of the common signs of the skin problems caused by bacteria. The affected area appears inflamed and red.
With the increase in the severity of the skin problem the dog may suffer from hair loss, crusted skin patches and dried discharge. To treat the problem, the fur around the affected area is removed. After washing the lesions with antibiotic shampoo, topical antibiotic ointments are applied. In certain cases oral antibiotics may be administered as well.
If you observe circular, inflamed lesions on your dog’s head, nose, paws and ears then your pet might be suffering from a fungal skin infection known as ringworm.
They are caused by the Trichophyton and the Microsporum fungi which live in the hair, nail and fur of the dog. While all dogs are susceptible to this skin problem, puppies and younger dogs are prone to suffering from ringworm. Unfortunately the infection can pass on quite easily to the other pets. Antifungal treatment in the form of shampoos, rinses and topical creams can help combat this problem.
Parasitic skin infections in dogs are caused by fleas, ticks, lice and mites. Mange is a skin infection caused by the mites. Canine scabies or sarcoptic mange results in intense itching, inflamed skin lesions and loss of hair while demodectic mange causes sores and crusted skin patches.
Insecticidal sprays, dips, powders and shampoos are effective in treating these problems. In case of fleas, collars and foggers can help in eliminating the pests from your pet.
Allergic reactions caused by allergens such as pollen grains, dust mites, food, chemicals in dog grooming products, insect bites result in skin infections. These are characterized by rashes and itching of the affected area. Seasonal changes, stress and metabolic changes can also trigger skin problems in dogs.
