6 Common Skin Conditions in Dogs

Skin problems are common among dogs and can cause discomfort, itching, and soreness. Skin issues become more common in the warm season due to the presence of pollen and more insects. Since you want your dog to have the best, you need to pay attention to its skin. Read on to discover the most common skin conditions in dogs.

1. Folliculitis

Folliculitis is characterized by the inflammation of hair follicles due to another skin condition. For instance, skin allergies or mange can cause folliculitis that will appear in the form of bumps and sores on the skin. Common treatments include antibacterial and antibiotics ointment as well as shampoos. You can also take your dog to a vet to soothe and treat the infection.

2. Skin Cancer

A lump or growth on the dog's skin may be an indication of skin cancer. Skin cancer in dogs is a common condition, particularly among older dogs. Dog skin cancer is a treatable condition, provided that the diagnosis happens early enough. Since you may not discover the growths and spots on the dog, request your vet to make the correct diagnosis.

Many types of skin cancers can happen in dogs, but the most common ones are squamous cell carcinoma, mast cell tumors, and melanoma. Malignant melanoma causes colored spots on the mouth, lips, and nails. On the other hand, red spots on the chest and limbs may be an indication of a mast cell tumor. Furthermore, if your dog has crusty bumps, it may suffer from squamous cell carcinoma.

3. Dry Skin

Dry skin is a common complication in dogs that causes the fur to part. As a result, the dog's skin will become scaly and flaky. You may also see inflammation and redness on the skin. Dry skin can happen because of several factors, such as environmental changes, dietary conditions, and allergies. Low humidity is the leading environmental factor that can cause dry skin in dogs.

Other factors that could cause dry skin in dogs include the following:

Lack of sufficient and clean water during the day

• Exposure to certain substances, such as allergens, smoke, fragrances, and shampoo
• Insufficient quantities of healthy oils in the dog's diet

4. Hair Loss

Your dog may lose hair in some parts or all parts of the body. You will also notice that the dog's skin has become inflamed and scaly. While occasional hair loss may not be a reason to worry, excessive and recurrent hair loss is a severe skin condition in dogs.

The problem may arise if your dog has an underlying health problem, like Demodex mites. Bacterial infections and systemic disorders may also lead to hair loss in dogs. Even ringworms and trauma can cause hair loss.

Common treatments for hair loss in dogs include hormone therapy and antibiotic therapy. Your vet may also recommend shampoos and topical ointments to rejuvenate hair growth.

5. Mange

Parasitic mites can come into contact with your dog's skin and cause mange. The symptoms of mange include itching, hair loss, and other skin infections.

Mange skin conditions can manifest in two different ways: sarcoptic mange and demodectic mange. Sarcoptic mange is due to a bite from the Sarcoptes scabies mite, while demodectic mange happens when the mite settles on the dog's skin.

6. Ear Infections

Your dog may have a skin infection on the ear's inner, middle, or outer canal. The infection causes swelling in the ear and can lead to some discharge. Usually, ear infections are signs of another underlying medical condition in your dog.

If your dog shows any signs of skin infections, South San Diego veterinary hospital is here to help you. We offer traditional and alternative veterinary care. Contact us to book an appointment.