A canine yeast infection is typically found on a dog's skin and ears. Yeast naturally exists in and on dogs. In healthy pets, the immune system keeps yeast at bay. In dogs whose immune systems may be weak, yeast can take over.
Canine Yeast Infections
Candida albicans is yeast that lives in a dog's digestive
tract and feeds off sugars and fats in his body. When a dog's body
isn't able to control the yeast population within him, they will grow
and release toxins that can disable the immune system and cause health
problems in the endocrine, nervous and immune systems. As a result of Candida albicans
being able to travel through the bloodstream, it has been found that
dogs can suffer from infections of the bladder, skin problems,
allergies and other health problems.
Malasezzia affects a
dog's skin and is seen when a dog has a wound or sores that are
independent or grouped in patches. The sores typically look red and can
cause a dog to experience hair loss, flaky or scaly skin and greasy
fur. Yeast infections of the skin typically occur on a dog's abdomen,
between his toes, on the paws and on the neck.
Natural Canine Yeast Infection Treatment
Many pet experts recommend changing a dog's diet when he has
acquired a yeast infection, to one that contains more meat and less
grains. The thought behind this is that dogs are naturally carnivores
and their systems aren't built to break down and digest many of the
carbohydrates and starches found in dog foods that contain grains as
one of their main ingredients. A dog's body is unable to use those
carbohydrates efficiently as a source of energy, like they would
protein. Foods that are recommended for dogs to eat to help treat and
prevent a yeast infection include fish, turkey, rabbit, chicken, lamb
and beef. It isn't advised that you feed your dog vegetables or fruit
if he has a yeast infection.
Live enzymes are also
recommended to help replenish the natural flora found in a dog's
stomach. Enzymes, which are popularly found in yogurt, can be purchased
at natural pet stores and may be supplemented with appropriate vitamins
and minerals to help boost the immune system.
Bathing your
pet once a week with a natural shampoo that contains essential oils
that aren't harmful to dogs is also suggested. The baths can help wash
away bacteria and dead skin. The oils will help moisturize and sooth
it. Another bath product that can be helpful to a dog and is easily
made at home is a 1:1 solution of water and apple cider vinegar. This
recipe will help kill the bacteria on a dog's skin. However, don't use
the apple cider vinegar mixture on a dog that has open sores.
Dog
yeast infections can be treated naturally, but it will take a while to
see results. Consult a veterinarian or a holistic animal practitioner
for recommendations on how to best help a dog with a yeast
infection.