Symptoms of Dog Skin Allergies

Dog skin allergies indicate that there is something is off balance in the dog's body. A dog can develop different types of skin problems as a reaction to food, parasites or chemicals he comes into contact with. The types of skin problems can include ringworm, mange, papulonodular dermatosis, hot spots and eczema. There are various symptoms to look for in the dog's behavior as well as by direct observation of the skin changes.

Ringworm

When a dog's skin gets infected with excess fungus, /ringworm appears. What you'll see are circular areas that are red and scaly. The dog will get very itchy and thus will scratch or bite at the area compulsively. Some of the scales may turn into blisters that ooze. Some of the scaly patches have well-defined areas. This problem can occur even if you bathe your dog consistently and thoroughly. The fungus can still be present without symptoms for up to a year. That is why it's really important to follow through on any treatment regimes you start.

Mange

Mange occurs due to mites or chewing lice that lay eggs below the dog's skin. There are some treatments that will help give your dog some relief from this incredibly itchy condition. Treatment is important because mange can lead to a secondary infection, especially when the dog is doing a lot of scratching that breaks the skin. When a dog has mange, she is very itchy and uncomfortable but, fortunately, there are some very effective treatments. These particular mites burrow in areas where there's not a lot of hair. This can include the ear flaps and abdomen.

Papulonodular Dermatosis

A previous skin condition can cause skin allergies and inflammation. In several dog skin allergies, bumpy, solid lesions form on the skin. Inflammatory cells and fluids sit inside the lesions. Nodules lie on the deeper layers of the skin while the bumps are closer to the surface. The skin can become discolored and red or crusty due to bacteria and fungus that has caused an infection.

Hot Spots

Some dog breeds are particularly susceptible to hot spots. Hot spots are literally areas of the skin that are irritated and inflamed. A dog with hot spots will be itchy and generally attracted to cool hard surfaces. You may notice patches of redness and wet fur where the dog has scratched and licked to the extreme. When hot spots worsen, it can become a systemic problem. Call the vet if your dog seems excessively lethargic and disinterested in eating, toys and going to the park.

Eczema

Dogs can develop this highly itchy skin allergy usually in response to food allergies. Eczema can have a dry, flaky appearance or can just be an incredibly red area. Sometimes the skin will break and bleed when the dog scratches it

 

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