Identifying Dog Skin Diseases: A Guide to Accurate Diag

Section 1: External Parasite Infections

Common external parasites affecting dogs include fleas, lice, and ticks. These pests not only bite and feed on a dog's skin, but also cause itching, rough hair, and in severe cases, lead to complete hair loss, weakness, and anemia. Additionally, their mouthparts, saliva, and excrement can trigger allergic dermatitis in dogs. Beyond skin issues, these parasites can also transmit other diseases.

Diagnosis is based on the presence of live parasites on the dog's body, evidence of flea feces and lice eggs at the base of the fur, and symptoms such as sudden itching, licking, and whining.

Section 2: Skin Mite Infections

Two primary types of mites commonly responsible for canine skin diseases are demodex mites and scabies mites.

Mite infections typically present with symptoms like red and swollen follicles, pustules, and hair loss. Initially, these may appear around the eyes, upper and lower jaws, and around the lips, causing minimal itching. However, as the condition worsens, it can spread to the neck, limbs, lower abdomen, and inner thighs, leading to redness, hair loss, excessive oiliness, dandruff, small pustules, severe itching, thickened skin, and hyperpigmentation.

Diagnosis is primarily made by examining skin scrapings under a microscope for the presence of mites and their larvae.

Section 3: Skin Allergic Reactions

Canine skin allergies can manifest as either acute or chronic reactions.

Here are the symptoms of canine allergic dermatitis:

Acute Allergic Reaction: Often occurs immediately after ingesting certain proteins or receiving medications, leading to redness and swelling of the face and limbs, widespread hives, severe itching, and in severe cases, respiratory distress and even shock and death.

Chronic Allergic Reaction: Symptoms can include widespread red bumps and hives, itching, hair loss, and in some cases, chronic otitis externa (inflamed and exuding ears) along with vomiting and diarrhea.

It's important to note that besides the symptoms mentioned above, there are many other factors that can lead to skin diseases in cats and dogs. It is advisable for pet owners not to resort to medication without a proper diagnosis. Rather than taking on the risks of selfmedication, it's safer to employ the most secure treatment measures to alleviate the suffering of our furry friends.