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also see Dog Skin Infection
also see Canine Yeast Infection
also see Dog Infection
also see Giardia in Dogs
There are many symptoms that are indicative of a dog yeast infection. Typically, the infection occurs either on the skin or in the ears. Dog yeast infections are common and are usually treatable.
Every dog has a certain amount of malassezia—a type of yeast—in
their ear canals, anal sacs, rectums and vaginas, and it usually
doesn’t pose a problem. However, there are a few dogs who will
experience an overabundance of the yeast and will develop an infection.
Typically, the yeast infection will occur on certain spots,
including the ear, anal area, feet or muzzle. Sometimes, the infection
will be come generalized and spread throughout the dog’s body. Dogs who
have yeast infections on their toes will constantly lick at them to try
to remove the infection and to help alleviate the pain. If the yeast
infection occurs on the muzzle, the dog may rub her nose on couches or
the floor or she may scratch. In addition, if the anal area has become
infected, she may lick or rub her bottom on the floor.
If the
yeast infection has become generalized, the dog may have a foul odor
because of the bacteria permeating the skin. Many dogs with yeast
infections will scratch themselves constantly and can cause damage from
the nails. Some will even bite themselves to the point of mutilation.
The skin may be oily, thickened, red or even black, while some hair
loss may also occur.
If your dog is scratching at his ears or rubbing them along the
floor, he may be suffering from a yeast infection. If he does have a
yeast infection, he may also hold his head to one side, be sensitive
around the ear or even become depressed or irritable. If the infection
is severe enough, it can spread to the inner ear and cause
disorientation.
Ears that are infected with yeast will usually
appear red, inflammed and sometimes swollen. You may notice sores on
the flaps from your dog’s nails as well. The wax that is produced by a
yeast infection will be a dark brown color and is often sticky. The ear
will probably have a large amount of the discharge in the canal and it
will often travel to the ear folds.
Many ear yeast infections
will occur because of allergies. When the body is fighting an allergen,
the ears will produce a large amount of wax, which can cause a yeast
infection. If you notice that the dog has ear infections the same time
of year or they are often accompanied by a lot of scratching at the
skin, your dog may have allergies.
Both types of yeast infections need to be treated, as they won’t go away on their own. Shampoos and topical treatments are often effective for skin yeast infections. If needed, oral medications will also be prescribed. Ear yeast infections need to be treated with medication, along with daily ear cleanings.
also see Common Dog Skin Diseases
also see Black Skin Disease in Dogs
also see Canine Shampoo Products for Dog Flaky Skin Treatment
also see Diagnosing Canine Skin Infections
also see Natural Flea Products for Dogs
also see Natural Flea Shampoo for Dogs
also see Dog Ear Yeast Infections Explained