Common Skin Problems in Dogs

Skin problems are relatively common in dogs but that doesn’t mean they should be ignored. If you notice the signs and symptoms of skin disorders in your dog, it’s important to get things checked out as soon as possible.

Even the most minor symptoms can be a sign that there is something more serious going on and quickly resolving the problem will prevent your pup’s skin from worsening.

Below, we’re going to cover the most common skin conditions in dogs, including their key signs and symptoms.

After reading this article, you should feel confident in identifying a range of skin problems in your dog as soon as they appear. Remember that the quicker you spot the symptoms and get treatment for your pup, the quicker they will recover.

Signs and Symptoms of Skin Conditions in Dogs

Generally, skin problems flare up in summer more often than in winter due to seasonal allergies and increased numbers of insects. While you should check your dog’s skin regularly throughout the year, pay extra attention to them during the warm months of the year.

Most skin health conditions in dogs can range in severity from mild to severe. Some conditions can clear up by themselves. Others require some form of intervention.

Depending on the cause, simple lifestyle changes might clear the issue up, such as switching your pet to dog food for sensitive skin. More serious skin conditions might require more intensive treatments and therapies.

The most common signs of skin health problems in dogs are:
Excessive itching, scratching, or licking
Sores and scabs
Redness or discolouration
Dryness and flakiness
Dandruff
Rashes
Lumps and bumps
Bald patches or hair loss
Inflamed spots on the skin (acute moody dermatitis)

Common Skin Conditions in Dogs

Skin conditions can be caused by allergies, genetics, infections, medications, and more. If your family dog is showing the signs of skin conditions, take them to the vet as quickly as possible.

Here are the most common skin issues in dogs.

Fleas

Fleas bite into the skin to suck blood. When they do so, some of the saliva interacts with your dog’s skin and causes an allergic reaction.

Dogs can pick fleas up while they’re playing outside in the garden, or as they’re walking in the park or along outdoor trails. They can also catch those pesky bugs from other dogs or cats.

Your dog will start itching at the site of the bite because of the allergic reaction, causing inflammation and redness. They might also chew at the fur in the area, causing baldness.

If you suspect that your dog has fleas, take a closer look at their fur. Fleas will look like tiny brown dots and you might notice tiny black specks, which are their droppings.

You can use a flea comb to brush through your pet’s fur and catch some of them but they’re great at running and hiding. A strong treatment will be more effective at killing all of the live fleas and eggs on your dog’s skin and those that are hiding in your carpets at home.

Dandruff

Dogs can get dandruff just like humans and it usually indicates that there is an underlying allergy or infection. Some dog breeds are more prone to getting dandruff in the winter months when the weather is cold and dry.

You can reduce the risk of dandruff by feeding your dog a diet full of high-quality protein and omega-3 and 6 fatty acids. If their dandruff doesn’t clear up after a few weeks, take your dog to see the vet.

Mange

Mange is a skin condition that is caused by mites that live on your dog’s skin and fur. There are two main kinds of mange – demodectic and sarcoptic mange. Both types can lead to inflammation and infections when they reproduce.

Demodectic mange is caused by the Demodex mite and most commonly affects pups below the age of one or dogs who already have a pre-existing condition. It causes scabs, sores, and bald patches.

Sarcoptic mange (sometimes also called canine scabies) is caused by Sarcoptes mites that often cause excessive itchiness on the dog’s skin. This type of mange causes inflammation, sores, and scabs, which usually appear near the face, behind the ears, and on the back of the legs

If your pet has mange, make sure to wash all of your sheets and your dog’s bed. Take them to the vet for an official diagnosis and treatment. Your vet may offer special shampoos and treatments to kill the mites and reduce inflammation on the skin. They might also administer medications via injections.

Dry Skin

There are many reasons why your dog might have chronic dry skin. You will spot dry skin by parting their fur and checking for scaly or flaky areas. The skin may also appear red and inflamed.

Dry skin can be caused by:
Environmental factors, such as cold, dry weather with low humidity or sitting in areas where the
heating or air conditioning system is high
Allergies to ingredients in shampoos and fragrances, pollen, grass, or mites
Food intolerances, allergies, or sensitivities
Dehydration, caused by not drinking enough water, especially during the summer months when the
weather is warm

Yeast Infections

Yeast grows best in environments that are warm and moist, so yeast infections tend to appear on the back of the ears and on the paws. You might notice that your dog starts to scratch behind their ears more than usual or chew at their paws.

If your dog has a yeast infection, you’ll need to take them to the vet for treatment. The vet might prescribe oral medications, creams, or ointments to kill the yeast.

Folliculitis

Another common skin infection in dogs is folliculitis, where the hair follicles become infected and inflamed. It leads to redness, bumps, and scabs, and is treated using oral or topical medications.