Canine Skin Diseases

Canine skin diseases are one of the most common ailments in dogs. In most cases, skin disorders are caused due to infections and allergic reactions. Dog allergies affect the skin, rather than the respiratory tract observed in humans. The immune system of a dog produces excess antibodies (histamines) after exposure to allergens present in the environment such as pollens, foods and microbes. This overreaction of immune system causes itching and skin disease in dogs. At times, dog skin problems occur as a result of other underlying dog health problems. Hence, coat color and skin condition are often considered as indicators to determine the general health of your pet dog.

Canine Skin Diseases: Types and Symptoms

Canine skin diseases can be acute (self-limiting) or chronic (long-term). Some dog breeds like Terrier and Retrievers are more prone to skin problems than others. Based on the cause, dog skin disorders are categorized into four major types, namely, bacterial, fungal, parasitic and allergic.

Bacterial Skin Infection
Staph bacteria or Staphylococci is a major causal organism for bacterial skin infection (pyodermas) in dogs. The trunk portion and ears are most susceptible to bacterial infection. Nevertheless, symptoms may spread to the whole body of the pet. Some of the common symptoms of bacterial skin infection are rashes, pustules, hot spots, loss of hair in patches and severe itching.

Fungal Skin Infection
Fungal skin infection in dogs is referred to as ringworm. It is often observed in puppies, rather than older dogs. The fungus usually inhabits the skin, nails and hair. Head and legs are commonly affected by ringworm. Loss of hair is one of the early symptoms of fungal skin infection in dogs. If symptoms remain untreated, infection may progress leading to dry and crusty skin lesions.

Parasitic Skin Disease
Dogs are susceptible to various parasites including fleas and dust mites. Dog skin disease caused by mites is called mange. Parasitic skin disease can affect any part of the dog's body; common symptoms include crusty skin, irritation in affected ares, itching, lesions, inflammation and loss of hair.

Allergic Skin Disease
Allergic skin diseases in dogs can be caused due to dog food allergy, chemical allergy (present in soaps, detergents), insect bites and stings. Among these, atopic dermatitis is the most common. It is developed due to inhalation of pollutants such as pollens, dust and molds. This skin disease can affect dogs at any stage, especially young dogs between one to three years. Symptoms of atopy are rash, scratching, self-biting and itching in the face, ears and foot.

Canine Skin Diseases: Diagnosis and Treatment

Since there are varied reasons for the cause of canine skin diseases, it is often difficult to evaluate the exact cause of the condition. Diagnosis is usually based on the physical examination and medical history of the affected dog. In order to evaluate any underlying dog diseases, the veterinarian may conduct blood tests, urine and stool analysis and skin biopsy. After correct diagnosis and evaluation of the source of allergy, the veterinarian may prescribe certain medication and remedies for treatment of dog skin diseases.

Actual treatment of dog skin disease is based on the cause of the skin problem. In case of bacterial skin infection, the vet may prescribe antibiotic course for about three weeks. Other common treatment procedures include topical ointments and medications such as antihistamines (to cope up with the effects of histamines), corticosteroids and immunotherapy. Antihistamines can be used effectively in all age groups, whereas corticosteroids are more effective among young dogs. For older dogs, more strong medications are necessary to treat skin diseases.

If dog skin disease is developed due to allergies, the best way to prevent such problems is to avoid exposure to the particular allergy-causing agent. For chronic dog skin diseases, the pet may be required to administer medications throughout its life. In case, a dog displays increased itching or change in behavior, it is advisable to consult and seek the advice of a qualified veterinarian. Timely treatment along with proper dog care is always recommended to avoid other health complications.