The Most Common Skin Conditions for Your Dog
If your dog seems uncomfortable and is itching and scratching more than usual, it may be suffering from a skin condition. Your dog's skin is one of the leading indicators of its health and happiness. Skin conditions are the number-one reason dogs visit the veterinarian, and allergies are the most common skin problem dogs experience — and vet visits add up fast.
What Are the Most Common Skin Conditions?
Dry Skin
Since your dog can't tell you how they feel, you have to learn from their behavior. Dry skin causes a dog to scratch — sometimes compulsively — which can lead to worse problems. It can be caused by over- or under-bathing, lack of grooming, a deficiency in diet, a dry climate, forced-air heating and air conditioning, and recent surgeries.
Yeast Infection
Yeast is more of a problem in warm, humid weather. Like dry skin, it causes excessive itching, and it tends to affect particular areas — the paws, ears, armpits, jowls and skin folds. Yeast infections are common in dogs with floppy ears and can be made worse by swimming.
Dandruff
Yes, dogs get dandruff too. It's one of the easier skin problems to spot because it's so visible, often along with skin bumps or scabs. Breeds more prone to dandruff include Basset Hounds, Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers and German Shepherds.
Dog Mange
Mange is caused by microscopic mites. There are two kinds: sarcoptic mange (scabies), which can hit fast, cause severe itching and is very contagious; and demodectic mange, which is common in puppies. Most puppies under a year recover without treatment, but older dogs usually need medical care.
Hot Spots
Hot spots are painful, itchy sores — red, inflamed, warm to the touch and sometimes foul-smelling — that worsen as a dog licks and bites them. Breeds more prone to hot spots include Newfoundlands, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds and Bernese Mountain Dogs.
Many skin conditions are caught early through professional grooming. Our staff has discovered many skin problems and referred clients to a veterinarian. For the best pet grooming in Los Angeles — mobile or in-store — call us today at (310) 476-3353.