Healthy Dog Information

Some Types Of Dog Skin Problems

If an animal is healthy overall, this should be reflected in the quality of its skin. When quality is poor, it generally indicates that something else is wrong. Dog skin problems can be caused by either parasites, infections or allergies. Sometimes metabolic disorders or stress can have negative impacts as well. It is important to seek medical help when any changes in a pets external health are noticeable. A failure to do so may result in further deterioration of a pets health or passing along infections to other animals or even humans.

Dog skin problems are discovered by simple observation. If a dog frantically scratches or frequently licks or chews itself, these are tell-tale signs something is wrong. Another behavior a pet performs to show its discomfort is rubbing against carpets or furniture. These behaviors should signal to owners that a closer look at their pet is necessary.

Lesions, rashes, bald spots, scaly patches or scabs are reasons to notify a veterinarian. Additional reasons include discoloration, lumps, swelling, pus, blood or redness. Multiple conditions are possible causes of most symptoms. Therefore, a professional needs to conduct tests to identify and then properly treat each animal.

Pests may be the culprit. Fleas can cause irritation with their bites and droppings. Allergic reactions to the saliva in a flea bite can also occur. Unfortunately, sometimes negative reactions can be the result of attempts to eliminate fleas. Certain powders, sprays and other formulas toxic to fleas can also be irritants to a pet.

All kinds of infections can occur on the skin. Fungal, bacterial, or yeast infections are all possibilities. Ringworm is a common type of fungal infection. It manifests itself in bald spots, scaly patches and irritation. If these are observed, the animal should be taken in for treatment immediately. Ringworm is highly contagious and can be transmitted to both pets and humans. Any infections caused by bacteria or yeast signal a more serious underlying problem. Both normally occur only when skin has already been damaged in some other way.

Allergies also affect skin health. Allergies can flare due to irritants in the natural outdoor environment. Pollen, dust, mold or grass can all cause an unpleasant reaction in a pet. Generally symptoms improve or get worse with the changing seasons. Allergies due to food have some common sources. Usually chicken, soy, beef, wheat or corn based ingredients cause pets the most issues. Some additives, including food colorings, can be aggravating as well.

Sometimes problems may be behavioral. If a dog is highly stressed it may gnaw on itself or excessively lick its skin. Similarly, it may also perform these behaviors due to simple boredom. It is important that dogs are exercised and given the attention that they need to be healthy and happy.

A majority of these problems can be avoided. One such method is by using only gentle and dog intended products. Pets should be fed healthy and nutritious meals with limited artificial or nutrient empty ingredients. Hypoallergenic diets are highly recommended. Make sure the dog has a quiet, calm and clean environment. This will reduce stress and make it harder for pests to thrive. Veterinarians can also provide methods to prevent parasite infestations and to treat fleas.

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