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.
Allergic dermatitis presents as a rash which the dog scratches at relentlessly. Corticosteroids can be prescribed to relieve the itch, but identifying and removing the allergen is ultimately the most effective treatment plan. Dogs can be allergic to food, grooming products, pollen, and insect bites.
If your dogs 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.
Superficial bacterial folliculitis is symptomized as bumps, sores, and scabs. It is easier to see in shorthaired breeds. Longhaired breeds may present with scaly skin and increased shedding. Superficial bacterial folliculitis commonly occurs simultaneously with other skin problems.
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 is not a worm, it is a fungus. The name comes from the circular lesions which form on the affected dogs forelegs, paws, head, or ears. Highly 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 dogs 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 a very common problem for dogs. Most infestations are minor and cause only itching, but an extreme infestation can cause anemia and excessive blood loss. Fleas can also carry other parasites such as tapeworms. Additionally, dogs can be allergic to fleas. Allergies to fleas will result in alopecia and/or allergic dermatitis.
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.
Excessive, obsessive licking of one spot continuously will cause acral lick granuloma. The area is not able to heal due to the repeated licking. It becomes painful, exacerbating the problem. The only way to treat is to discourage the dog from licking through either a cone collar or a bad tasting topical solution.
Hot spots are small areas on a dogs skin that are red, irritated, and inflamed. They are a symptom of other dog skin problems and are treated by addressing that condition.
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