A Guide to Dog Skin Problems
June 23, 2011 
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Dogs which scratch more than usual likely have a skin disease. Fortunately, the majority of dog skin problems are easily cured after a quick trip to the vet.
A rash that your dog scratches at persistently is most likely allergic dermatitis. Corticosteroids can help alleviate symptoms, but the most effective treatment is identifying and removing the root allergen. Common dog allergies include grooming products, pollen, insect bites, and food.
If your dog’s itchiness seems to be concentrated on the ears and/or toes, it could have a yeast infection. Symptoms of a yeast infection include itchy, irritated, or discolored skin, most likely on the ears and paws. Your vet can prescribe a topical cream to clear up the infection. Oral drugs and medicated baths are also options.
Sores, scabs, and bumps might be superficial bacterial folliculitis. Shorthaired dogs present more obvious symptoms, but longhaired dogs may have increased shedding and scaly skin. Other skin problems often occur simultaneously with superficial bacterial folliculitis.
Impetigo is a kind of bacterial infection most common in puppies. The pus filled blisters it causes often break and crust over. It is easy to identify as the blisters usually form on the hairless portion of the abdomen. Impetigo can usually be treated with a topical solution.
Dogs with greasy skin and scales have seborrhea. Seborrhea is often a sign of another problem such as hormonal abnormalities or allergies, but it can sometimes be a lifelong genetic disease. If the underlying cause is treated symptoms will abate.
Ringworm, contrary to its name, is a fungus and not a worm. It causes circular lesions on a dog’s paws, forelegs, ears, or head. Very effective anti-fungal treatments are available.
Alopecia, or excessive shedding and hair loss, is always a sign of an underlying problem in dogs. Some shedding is natural, but when your dog’s hair begins to thin it is a result of stress, nutritional deficiency, or another underlying disease.
Mange is a striking condition, causing intense itching, sores, hair loss, and red skin. The kind of mange determines the treatment.
Fleas are the most common skin problem among dogs. The average infestation will just cause itching, but severe infestations can cause anemia and blood loss. Fleas also carry other parasites, most commonly tapeworms. Dogs which are allergic to fleas will also develop allergic dermatitis and/or alopecia simultaneously.
Another common parasite is the tick. Appreciable blood loss is rare as it would take many ticks, but they do carry Lyme disease. Lyme disease is a potentially serious infection. Dogs can be vaccinated for Lyme disease.
Acral lick granuloma is a skin condition caused by excessive and obsessive licking of one spot. The area is unable to heal and becomes painful, causing the dog to lick more. Acral lick granuloma is treated by either a foul tasting topical solution or a collar to discourage licking.
Hot spots are small areas on a dog’s skin that are red, irritated, and inflamed. They are a symptom of other dog skin problems and are treated by addressing that condition.
Written by jennifergretson
Ask Dr. Mona: How can I calm my sebhorrheic dermatitis? I have had to resort to going on sunbeds as I was Advised that the UV would help. It does help a little but I don’t want to have to use sunbeds all the time due to the health risks. Any help or advice would be great. Check out this video for Dr. Mona’s answer!
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