Understanding Common Dog Skin Infections
Dog skin issues are among the most frequent reasons pet owners visit the vet. While some problems are mild and resolve quickly, others can escalate into severe infections causing significant discomfort. Knowing what to look for and how to respond can make a world of difference for your dog’s health and happiness.
Recognizing the Signs of Skin Infections
Dogs with skin infections often show unmistakable symptoms. You might notice:
- Persistent scratching or licking
- Biting at certain areas
- Redness, swelling, or rashes
- Hair loss (alopecia)
- Scabs, crusts, or oozing sores
- Bumps or pustules
- Flaky or greasy patches
- An unusual odor
Sometimes there are changes in nail color or thickness of the skin. If you spot any of these signs—especially if they persist—it’s wise to consult your veterinarian.
Bacterial Infections: Pyoderma and Hot Spots
The most common bacterial infection in dogs is pyoderma, typically caused by Staphylococcus pseudintermedius. Pyoderma can be superficial (affecting only the upper layers) or deep (involving deeper tissues).
- Superficial pyoderma presents as red bumps, pus-filled lesions, circular patches of hair loss, or crusty skin.
- Deep pyoderma causes painful lesions that may ooze discharge.
A localized form called hot spots (acute moist dermatitis) appears as red, moist, oozing patches that develop rapidly from intense itching or licking. Hot spots are often triggered by allergies, parasites, or irritants like matted fur.
Treatment usually includes topical or oral antibiotics and medicated shampoos. Addressing underlying causes is essential for long-term relief.
Fungal Infections: Ringworm and Yeast Dermatitis
- Ringworm: Despite its name, ringworm isn’t a worm but a contagious fungus. It creates circular patches of scaly hair loss, inflamed skin, crusts, and sometimes brittle nails. Ringworm spreads easily between animals—and even to humans—so prompt treatment is crucial. Antifungal shampoos, creams, oral medications, and thorough cleaning help clear up the infection.
- Yeast Dermatitis: Overgrowth of Malassezia yeast leads to greasy or flaky skin (sometimes thickened), redness, a musty odor, and sometimes chronic ear infections. Treatment involves antifungal medications—either topical or oral—and managing any underlying issues that allow yeast to thrive.
Parasitic Skin Infections: Mange and More
Mites cause two main types of mange:
- Sarcoptic mange (scabies): Highly contagious between dogs (and can affect humans), it causes severe itching, redness, sores, and hair loss.
- Demodectic mange: Less contagious but common in puppies or immunocompromised dogs; it results in patchy hair loss and flaky skin.
Mite infestations require veterinary-prescribed medications for effective treatment. Fleas and ticks can also cause intense itching and secondary infections if left unchecked.
Seborrhea: Flaky or Greasy Skin Disorders
Seborrhea isn’t an infection itself but often accompanies them. It comes in two forms:
- Seborrhea sicca: Dry dandruff-like flakes.
- Seborrhea oleosa: Greasy skin with a foul odor.
This condition may be genetic or secondary to allergies and infections. Medicated shampoos can help manage symptoms while addressing any root causes.
Folliculitis: Hair Follicle Inflammation
This is inflammation of the hair follicles—often due to bacteria but sometimes caused by fungi or parasites. Signs include red bumps, pustules (pus-filled blisters), crusts/scabs, and localized hair loss. Folliculitis frequently occurs alongside other skin diseases; treatment targets both the infection itself and any underlying triggers.
Alopecia (Hair Loss) Due to Infection
Alopecia has many causes—including infections from bacteria, fungi (like ringworm), mites (mange), as well as hormonal disorders. A thorough veterinary workup helps pinpoint the exact reason for hair loss so targeted therapy can begin.
Lesser-Known Causes: Autoimmune Diseases & Tumors
- Certain autoimmune diseases attack healthy skin cells causing ulcerated lesions or blisters requiring immunosuppressive drugs.
- Lumps/bumps may signal benign growths—or malignant cancers needing surgical removal.
- Irritation in skin folds (intertrigo) is common in wrinkly breeds; this area is prone to bacterial/fungal overgrowth.
- Mite infestations like cheyletiellosis (“walking dandruff”) appear as moving flakes on the coat.
- Lick granuloma results from obsessive licking due to pain/irritation.
- Ears are also susceptible—chronic ear infections often stem from allergies/infections affecting the outer canal.
Treatment & Prevention Strategies
Treatments depend on what’s causing the infection but may include:
- Antibiotics (topical/oral) for bacterial issues
- Antifungals for yeast/ringworm
- Acaricides for mites/fleas
- Steroids/antihistamines for allergies
- Dietary changes where food sensitivities exist
- Medicated shampoos
- Cleaning/grooming routines
- Surgical removal for tumors/cancers
Your veterinarian will perform exams—and possibly run tests like scrapings/cultures—to identify the culprit before prescribing treatment.
Caring For Your Dog’s Skin at Home
- Bathe only as needed; overbathing dries out natural oils.
- Select hypoallergenic dog-safe shampoos.
- Keenly observe your dog’s coat/skin during grooming sessions.
- Add omega-3 fatty acids if recommended by your vet.
- Pursue year-round parasite prevention.
- If symptoms persist/worsen—see your vet promptly!
Diligent care helps prevent minor irritations from turning into major infections—and keeps your companion comfortable all year round!
