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There are several categories of dog skin problems but the symptoms of one type can overlap with the others. Scabs, redness, rashes, lesions or drainage are signs of canine skin disease. Hair loss, bald spots, scaly areas and swelling are also indicators. Dogs that repeatedly rub against furniture or carpeting may be suffering and need treatment.

Infections from bacteria can take hold anywhere but often will locate on a canine’s chin. The indicators of bacterial infections are red or ulcerated skin, yellow pustules, or crusty patches. Treatment is usually with antiseptics and antibiotics. Often this type of infection is secondary to a hormone imbalance, allergy, or parasites.

Fungal infections often begin on a dog’s head or legs. Circular patches with crusted centers and hair loss are common symptoms of ringworm. A vet can take a culture or use ultraviolet light to diagnose this problem. Fungicidal rinses and shampoos are used for treatment. Humans can pick up ringworm from a dog but it is easily treated and cured.

An infestation of fleas can cause mange. The fleas primarily attack a dog’s ears, front legs, abdomen and chest. Symptoms are hair loss and an intense itch, or there may be minor itching with red, scaly dermis and round areas of hair loss. Another parasite, mites, cause dogs to obsessively scratch their ears. Mites are not easy to detect but often leave discharge or dried blood in the ear. Medicated shampoos, dips, and if necessary antibiotics, solve this problem.

As with humans, dogs can develop allergies at any age. Flea saliva is the most common allergen in dogs and provokes intense itching. Dogs may also be allergic to molds, pollens, and house dust, resulting in some type of dermatitis. The allergies often show up as “hot spots.” These are areas that a dog constantly scratches and licks. Hot spots can look normal or may appear red and moist. Treatments include flea control, antihistamines, corticosteroids, and immuno-therapy. A change in diet may help.

As with people, sometimes a canine’s thyroid, adrenal or pituitary gland starts secreting too much hormone, or too little. This, too, can cause epidermal disease. There is usually no itching but the dermis may change color and be thinner or thicker than usual. The dog may lose hair from both sides of the body. To treat this vets first address the underlying gland disease, such as hypothyroidism.

It is recommended that a dog’s grooming products be those specifically made for canines. The winter season can trigger flaky, rough or dry patches on dogs and dog owners alike. Dermis trouble can also erupt when dogs do not get enough mental stimulation or physical activity. The symptom is usually obsessive licking on the legs.

There are things dog owners can do to prevent epidermal disease in their four-legged friends. Regular brushing to avoid hair matting, flea-control, the use of hypoallergenic shampoos, regular house cleaning, and a calm atmosphere are all preventative. The good news is that most dog skin problems are relatively easy to spot and are very treatable.

I’m a pet health consultant who specializes in skin care for dogs.

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