Identifying Dog Skin Diseases

Dog skin diseases are more common in certain dog breeds, but may affect dogs of all breeds, ages or sexes. The skin diseases may be caused by bacteria, fungi or viral infections, food allergies or contact dermatitis. Identifying dog skin diseases may be done judging by a few signs and symptoms. It is important to get a suitable diagnosis and treatment in a timely manner to prevent complications.

Itching

Itching is the first sign to indicate that your pet may be affected by a skin disease. The dog will be scratching intensively and may chew or lick his skin. In addition, to relieve the itchiness, the dog may seek cold places to stretch out on (i.e. bathroom tiles).

In addition to skin infections the itchiness may be indicative of allergies or fleas, so the pet should be diagnosed by a vet.

Redness and Swelling

You should take a look at the dog’s skin; if he is affected by a skin disease, the skin will be red and swollen. The skin may also be crusty or flaky.

Watch out for symptoms such as discharges (pus or transparent liquid), as these clearly indicate a skin infection. The type of discharge may point out whether the infection in fungal, viral or bacterial.

Localized or Generalized Infections

You should also establish if the infection is localized or generalized. Certain conditions such as mange or allergies to external parasites will affect only particular areas of the dog’s body (i.e. the face, at the base of the tail or legs and paws), while other skin infections will be generalized.

Excessive Dander

If the dog sheds excessive dander, this may be due to a skin condition. The skin may also be dry and crusty.

This condition may be caused by the use of an inappropriate shampoo, hormonal imbalance or different allergies or skin infections.

Look for Fleas

You should rule out fleas as the cause for itchiness or other symptoms that your dog may be displaying. The fleas can be visible; they are small dark brown spots and they also leave feces behind (digested blood). If your pet has a dark coat, you may notice the flea eggs, which are creamy white and small.

Thickened Skin

Palpate your dog’s skin and see if it is normal; if you notice areas of thickened skin, this may point to mange.  

Hair Loss

Skin diseases may cause hair loss, so look for bald patches. Hair loss may be caused by mange, skin infections, excessive scratching, unsuitable diet or stress. The hair loss may also be normal, as dogs shed hair on a regular basis.

If you notice any abnormalities in your dog’s behavior and there are also some signs that point to skin infections, you should visit a vet. The vet will perform some tests, get some skin scrapings and determine whether the dog has a skin disease or a different medical condition.

 

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