A Guide To Dog Skin Problems

Dogs which scratch more than usual likely have a skin disease. Fortunately, the majority of dog skin problems are easily cured after a quick trip to the vet.

A rash that your dog scratches at persistently is most likely allergic dermatitis. Corticosteroids can help alleviate symptoms, but the most effective treatment is identifying and removing the root allergen. Common dog allergies include grooming products, pollen, insect bites, and food.

If your dog is scratching primarily at the ears and/or toes, a yeast infection is the likely culprit. Symptoms include irritated, itchy, or discolored skin most common on the ears and paws. A topical cream can be prescribed. This is sufficient most of the time, but medicated baths or oral drugs are also options.

Sores, scabs, and bumps might be superficial bacterial folliculitis. Shorthaired dogs present more obvious symptoms, but longhaired dogs may have increased shedding and scaly skin. Other skin problems often occur simultaneously with superficial bacterial folliculitis.

Impetigo is a kind of bacterial infection most common in puppies. The pus filled blisters it causes often break and crust over. It is easy to identify as the blisters usually form on the hairless portion of the abdomen. Impetigo can usually be treated with a topical solution.

Seborrhea causes dogs to develop greasy skin and scales. This is occasionally a genetic disease that the dog will have for life, but most often it is a sign of an underlying issue such as allergies or hormonal abnormalities. The underlying cause must be treated for symptoms to abate.

Ringworm is a fungus, not a worm, that causes circular lesions on the dog's head, paws, ears, or forelegs. Anti-fungal treatments are available and very effective.

Excessive shedding and hair loss is called alopecia and is a symptom of another underlying problem. Nutritional deficiency, stress, or an underlying disease can cause thinning of the coat.

Many people know what mange looks like. It is caused by mites and causes intense itching, red skin, sores, and hair loss. Treatment depends on the variety of mange and is effective.

The most common skin problem for dogs is fleas. Most infestations just cause itching, but some cause blood loss and anemia. Tapeworms and other parasites are carried by fleas as well. Some dogs are allergic to fleas and will develop alopecia and/or allergic dermatitis simultaneously.

Another common parasite is the tick. Appreciable blood loss is rare as it would take many ticks, but they do carry Lyme disease. Lyme disease is a potentially serious infection. Dogs can be vaccinated for Lyme disease.

Acral lick granuloma is a skin condition caused by excessive and obsessive licking of one spot. The area is unable to heal and becomes painful, causing the dog to lick more. Acral lick granuloma is treated by either a foul tasting topical solution or a collar to discourage licking.

Hot spots are a common with dog skin problems. They are small areas of irritated, inflamed, and red skin. Treatment includes addressing the underlying cause.

About the Author:
Jennifer is a family dog health specialist specializing in dog allergies treatment.

Article Originally Published On: http://www.articlesnatch.com

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