Dry Scaly Skin on Dogs

There are many reasons why your dog may suffer from dry scaly skin. Instead of using over the counter medicines to soothe your pet’s skin you must first find out the cause of the skin condition. Pets suffering from dry skin tend to scratch the affected areas. This can then lead to further skin inflammation, redness and secondary bacterial infections.

Causes of Dry Scaly Skin

Common causes of dry scaly skin include:

  • Cheyletiella
  • Demodectic mange
  • Dermatomyositis
  • Flea Allergy Dermatitis 
  • Pelodera Dermatitis

Cheyletiella in Dogs

The Cheyletiella infection is caused by mites that have claw shaped mouths. Pets suffering from these mite infections often develop a condition known as walking dandruff. Dogs contract this infection when they come in contact with pets that are carrying Cheyletiella mites. To get rid of this infection, the vet will prescribe products that contain ivermectin, selamectin or milbemycin.

Symptoms of Cheletiella Infections

Some symptoms of cheletiella infections are:

  • Flaking skin
  • Redness of the skin
  • Itchy skin 
  • Hair loss

Demodectic Mange in Dogs

This skin condition is caused by mites known as demodex canis. Although these mites can’t be seen by the naked eye, they can be diagnosed through microscopic examination of the dog’s skin. While some pets suffer from mange infection on certain parts of the body, others may suffer from generalized mange that affects the entire body. Pets suffering from demodectic mange are prescribed oral medications and certain dips to get rid of active infections.

Symptoms of Demodectic Mange

  • Scaly skin
  • Ulcers
  • Darkening of the skin
  • Reddened skin
  • Inflammed skin

Dermatomytosis in Dogs

Although the cause of this skin condition is not known, several breeds suffer from the infection. The vet will have to perform a skin biopsy test to diagnose dermatomytosis. Dermatomytosis cannot be easily cured. The vet will recommend the administration of supplements that contain Vitamin E. Pet owners should also prevent their pets from coming in contact with UV lights as this can exacerbate the condition.

Symptoms of Dermatomytosis Include:

  • Redness of the skin
  • Scaly skin
  • Alopecia 
  • Skin scarring

Flea Allergy Dermatitis

This condition can affect pets of all age groups and breeds. Flea allergy dermatitis develops when the pet’s skin reacts to flea saliva. Once these fleas bite your pet, he will start scratching his skin and may suffer from skin lesions and secondary bacterial infections. Pets are also known to suffer from dry scaly skin and hair loss in patches.

Although the vet may prescribe antibiotics to get of secondary bacterial infections, the only way to completely get rid of flea allergy dermatitis is to eliminate flea infections. You may have to use a monthly flea remedy to protect your pet from contracting fleas in the future.

Pelodera Dermatitis

This condition generally arises when the pet comes in contact with the larvae of a non-parasitic worm. Pelodera dermatitis has to be treated with the administration of corticosteroids and anti-bacterial medications.

Symptoms of Pelodera Dermatitis Incude:

  • Dry scaly skin
  • Redness of the skin
  • Hair loss
  • Itchiness

Since several skin conditions are characterized by the same symptoms, you must conduct a vet check to find out what your dog is suffering from. With proper medication and care, these skin conditions can be controlled before they become severe.

 

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