Dog skin conditions

Allergic reactions are a common cause of skin issues in dogs.¹ This condition occurs when a dog’s immune system reacts to substances like food ingredients, pollen, dust mites or flea bites. Symptoms include itching, redness, inflammation and ear infections.

Fleas and ticks are external parasites that can cause significant discomfort to dogs.¹ Fleas are the more common of the two, leading to intense itching, hair loss and hot spots. Ticks can cause Lyme disease and other illnesses, so it’s important to check for and treat these pests regularly.

Hot spots are areas of irritated skin that become inflamed and infected and are often caused by excessive scratching or licking.¹ They typically appear suddenly and are characterised by redness, swelling, and sometimes oozing.

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic, allergic skin condition commonly seen in dogs, especially those with a genetic predisposition.¹ It is caused by an overreaction of the immune system to environmental allergens like pollen, dust mites and mould. Symptoms include itching, scaly skin, redness, hair loss and recurring infections. While atopic dermatitis cannot be cured, it can be managed with treatments such as antihistamines, steroids, immunotherapy, topical medications and regular grooming.

Yeast infections thrive in warm, moist areas of a dog’s body, such as between the toes or in ears.¹ Dogs with yeast infections may experience itchy skin and hair loss and have an unpleasant odour.

Ringworm is a fungal infection that can cause circular, hairless patches on the skin and red skin lesions and rashes in a circular shape.¹ Despite its name, ringworm is not caused by a worm but a fungus that can spread quickly, especially in environments with multiple animals.

Dry skin can occur due to environmental factors such as cold weather, low humidity, or overbathing.¹ It can lead to flaking, crusting skin, itching and general discomfort for the dog.

Pyoderma is a bacterial skin infection that can be caused by things like allergies, flea infestations or underlying hormonal imbalances.¹ The skin may develop pustules, redness, and crusty scabs.

Mange is caused by mites and characterised by hair loss, itching and inflamed skin.¹ There are two main types of mange: demodectic mange (due to mites that live in hair follicles and naturally occur on the dog’s skin) and sarcoptic mange (caused by highly contagious mites).

• Brushing: Regular brushing removes dirt, debris and loose hair, helping to prevent matting and tangles. Brushing also distributes natural oils across the skin, promoting a healthy coat. Depending on your dog’s breed and coat type, brushing may need to be done daily or a few times a week.
• Bathing: Bathing your dog with a mild, vet-recommended shampoo can help remove dirt and allergens from the skin and coat. A bath every 4-6 weeks is typically sufficient unless your dog has a specific skin issue. Avoid overbathing as this can strip the skin of natural oils, leading to dryness or irritation.
• Ear care: Some dogs, particularly those with floppy ears, are prone to ear infections, which can be linked to skin conditions. Regular ear cleaning using safe, vet-approved ear wipes or solutions can help to prevent build-up and infection.

• Fleas and ticks: Fleas and ticks are common culprits when it comes to skin issues. Regularly using flea and tick preventative measures such as topical treatments, oral medications or flea collars is crucial for preventing infestations.
• Mite control: Some dogs, especially those with weakened immune systems, are susceptible to mange caused by mites. Regular check-ups and skin checks can help catch any early signs of mite infestations, which can be treated promptly with medicated shampoos or topical

• Environmental allergens: Dogs, like humans, can develop allergies to environmental factors such as pollen, mould or dust mites. To minimise exposure to allergens, keep your dog indoors during peak pollen season and vacuum frequently.
• Contact allergies: Dogs can develop allergies to substances they come into contact with such as fabrics, cleaning chemicals or plastics. Washing your dog’s bedding and toys with mild detergent and avoiding harsh chemicals can reduce this risk.

• Healthy diet: A balanced, high-quality diet is vital for maintaining your dog’s skin Foods rich in essential fatty acids (such as Omega-3 and Omega-6), vitamins and minerals promote healthy skin and a shiny coat. Look for dog food with high-quality protein sources, healthy fats and added nutrients like biotin and zinc.
• Hydration: Ensuring your dog has access to fresh water helps maintain healthy skin hydration. Dehydration can lead to dry, flaky skin, which makes your dog more prone to skin irritation and infections.
• Supplements: In some cases, your vet might recommend supplements, such as fish oil or flaxseed oil, to support your dog’s skin These supplements provide essential fatty acids that nourish the skin and help manage conditions like allergies or dry skin.

• Sunburn prevention: Dogs with light-coloured coats or thin fur are more susceptible to sunburn, which can cause skin irritation, itchiness and even skin cancer. If your dog spends a lot of time outdoors, consider using pet-safe sunscreen, especially on exposed areas like the nose, ears and belly.
• Shade and indoor time: To prevent sunburn, limit your dog’s exposure to the sun during peak hours (typically between 10am and 4pm) and provide shaded areas.

• Routine health exams: Regular visits to the vet can help identify potential skin problems early before they become severe. Annual or semi-annual check-ups allow the vet to examine your dog’s skin and coat, assess any changes and recommend preventive measures, such as vaccines or parasite treatments.
• Vaccinations: Ensure that your dog’s vaccinations are current, as some conditions (such as skin infections) can be linked to underlying health issues. Dogs with compromised immune systems are more prone to skin infections.

• Home hygiene: Regularly wash your dog’s bedding, toys and clothing to reduce the build-up of allergens or bacteria that could irritate its skin.
• Yard maintenance: If your dog spends time outside, it’s important to keep your yard free from ticks, fleas and other pests. Regular lawn care and pest control can help reduce the risk of your dog picking up fleas or ticks during outdoor play.

• Ringworm: A fungal infection that can spread through direct contact or contaminated surfaces.
• Sarcoptic mange: Caused by mites and highly contagious to both dogs and humans.
• Fleas and ticks: While they don’t cause skin problems themselves, they are contagious and can lead to other issues.

• Allergic dermatitis: Caused by environmental or food allergens, this condition is not contagious.
• Hot spots, yeast infections and pyoderma: These are typically linked to underlying health issues and are not contagious to other pets or humans.