Common Causes of Dog Skin Diseases Explained

Summertime can be a challenging season for our furry friends, as dogs are particularly prone to overheating and, even more so, to skin issues. This is due to the fact that summer is the peak season for parasites to thrive, and these pests can be the root cause of many skin conditions. Therefore, Dr. OxygenPet reminds us that extra care must be taken to address our dogs' skin health during the warmer months.

There are several factors that can lead to skin diseases in dogs:

a. Pathogenic Infections Such as fungal or bacterial infections, which can disrupt the skin's tissue and lead to dermatological issues.

b. Parasitic Bites Like fleas or ticks, which can cause allergic reactions and swelling at the bite site, resulting in severe itching and persistent scratching.

c. Endocrine Disorders Such as hypothyroidism. It's important to treat according to the specific cause.

Here are some common reasons for fungal infections in dogs:

a. Unaired Fur Hair that isn't properly dried, or a damp environment can create a breeding ground for fungi.

b. Nutritional Deficiencies Poor nutrition can weaken the immune system, making the dog more susceptible to infections.

c. Wound Infections Open wounds can introduce fungi into the skin.

Signs of fungal infections in dogs include:

a. Lesions that are elliptical or circular in shape.

b. Excessive dandruff that appears scaly.

c. Easy formation of crusts leading to largescale ringworm patches.

Treatment for fungal infections in dogs may include:

a. Applying the Furocen Skin Spray twice over the entire body.

b. Weekly medicated baths.

c. Wearing an Elizabethan collar to prevent the dog from licking or scratching the affected areas.

Causes of mite infections in dogs include:

a. Moist Environments Areas that are too damp can harbor mites.

b. Hidden Spots Crevices and hidden areas in the home can be a haven for mites.

c. Contact with Infected Dogs Direct contact with other dogs that have mites can lead to infection.

Symptoms of mite infections in dogs may include:

a. Lesions with numerous small bumps, often covering a larger area.

b. Intense itching at the affected sites.

c. Thickening of the skin and secretion of fluids.

Treatment for mite infections in dogs may involve:

a. Shaving the affected area to expose the skin.

b. Administering ivermectin or doramectin through subcutaneous injections, once a week.

c. Applying medicated shampoos or dips to the affected areas, typically once every five days.