Occasionally, dogs may be bothered by itchy ears and paws, which may be a sign of skin infections – yeast related or bacterial. Sometimes, dog owners take these infections for allergies and choose the wrong treatment plan. This is why consulting a veterinarian is essential, every time your furry friend manifests such symptoms.
The causes of skin infections
Skin infections are quite common, being favored by:
- Existing allergies
- Dogs licking and scratching their skin
- Dogs with floppy years
- Breeds with skin folds
These are not the only causes and, in fact, any dog can get skin infections, however some are more prone than others. Dog owners should learn about symptoms and treatment options. Most forms of skin infection can be easily detected, having visual, specific symptoms: scratching, shaking the head, holding it to one side, licking and biting the paws etc. Things get more complicated when the infection is located in hidden areas, like the eras, but experienced vets will always know what to do.
Bacterial infections
Bacterial skin infections in dogs are often favored by allergies. Dogs that scratch due to allergies may break their skin, creating the perfect environment for bacteria formation, which will likely cause infection. A dog`s preference to playing in mud or to swim also favors bacterial skin infections.
When it comes to the treatment, this type of infections respond well to antibacterial agents, often found in medicated shampoos. Typically, you should give your dog a bath twice a week, during the first 15 days, then once a week, for another month. After that, you dog`s bathing schedule can return to normal again.
If the bacterial infection is already deep rooted, the symptoms will be more severe: hair loss, abscesses, oozing sores etc. In this case, your vet will probably prescribe antibiotics.
Keep in mind that no symptom should be ignored. The soon you go to the vet and start a treatment, the better and you have better chances to prevent the infection from aggravating.
Yeast infections
Fungal infections may produce a specific odor, which persists even after bathing your dog. They are favored by moisture, especially during the warm months, this being why the breeds with floppy years or folds of skin are more prone to them.
There are several options for the treatment:
- Using an antifungal shampoo and giving your furry friend weekly baths, until the infection disappears
- Antifungal medication or drops, prescribed by your vet.
Puppy dermatitis
This is another type of skin infection, specific rather to puppies under 12 months old. It can occur in any puppy and may or may not be related to unsanitary environment. The symptoms include visible red spots and blackheads that may burst. Treatment consists in bathing your dog using a Benzoyl Peroxide shampoo, twice a week, until the symptoms ameliorate, or giving him oral antibiotics, prescribed by the vet. If you stay consistent, treatments will be efficient, regardless the type of skin infection we are talking about.
