Skin Tags on Dogs

You probably see your dog keeps on scratching its skin almost all the times. It is indeed a bad habit, but you cannot simply force your pet to stop it without inspecting the underlying problem. You need to know that dog skin problems are very common, and they are related to various possible causes as follows.

1. Dry Skin

Dry skin is a common problem suffered by animals especially when they are exposed to cold temperature such as during winter. It can be as well a sign of other skin diseases including mange and allergies. In some cases, dry skin can lead to other worse problems if left untreated. Therefore, it is recommended that you take your dog to a veterinarian if dry skin causes uncomfortable situations for the pet.

2. Allergic Dermatitis

Allergies may also trigger numerous dog skin problems. Almost everything around the dog can act as allergens including good, insect bites, detergents, shampoo, and even grooming products. In a dog, allergic reactions can cause itchy skin which will force it to scratch relentlessly. Without proper treatment, relentless scratching will create rashes and possibly trigger wounds or infections. It is best to consult veterinarian to figure out the responsible allergens, so you can keep your dog away from them.

3. Seborrhea

Seborrhea is a genetic disease in most cases. This begins while the dog is still young, and it will last for lifetime. The symptoms are greasy skin and dandruff. The disease often causes other health problems including hormonal abnormalities and allergies. There is almost nothing you can do to get rid of seborrhea, but you can help your dog to stop the symptoms from recurring by treating the underlying problem.

4. Ringworm

Ringworm creates circular shapes in the dog’s skin. They can appear anywhere, but most commonly on paws, forelegs, head, and ears. It is not caused by a worm, but by a fungus. Young dogs aged less than one year old are very prone to ringworm. The circular shapes also usually cause hair loss problem. Ringworm is a contagious disease that can spread not only to other dogs, but also to pet owners.

5. Fleas

Fleas are tiny insects that can live almost in all places including dog’s skin and coat. Your dog will try to get rid of them by continuously licking or scratching its skin. In severe condition, fleas can cause anemia or blood loss. Fleas can be treated by applying topical or oral medications, but it is best to prevent their existence by regularly bathing your pet and cleaning the environment.

6. Mange

Almost similar to fleas, mange is caused by tiny creatures called mites. They can spread quickly among dogs and humans, but they cannot thrive on humans. There are two types of mites including Sarcoptic mange and Demodectic mange. Sarcoptic causes red skin and sores, while Demodectic causes bald spots. Every different type of mange requires different treatments, so you need to consult veterinarian concerning this issue.

7. Yeast Infection

Among all existing dog skin problems, yeast infection is the easiest to diagnose and treat. The infection usually appears in ears or paws where the yeast has a comfortable place to grow. The most common symptoms include discolored skin, irritation, and itchy skin. Yeast infection can be treated by using topical cream, medicated baths, or oral drugs.

Conclusion

There are many things that possibly cause dog skin problems. Some diseases are contagious, while others can be easily treated by using topical or oral medications only. Nonetheless, it is always wise that you consult a veterinarian before applying any treatment to get the best results and prevent the problems from recurring.