Skin Problems in Rottweilers
Rottweilers are large, powerful and impressive dogs. They are a hardy breed but, as with most purebred dogs, come with a few breed specific health conditions. Of the inherent illnesses associated with rottweilers are skin problems. Sooner or later, most rottweilers experience some form of skin problem.
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Allergic Reaction
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The most common skin problem is related to allergies. Dogs manifest their allergies through their skin instead of as an upper respiratory condition. Allergic dermatitis will manifest as dry, itchy skin. Allergic dermatitis can be caused by a number of agents such as food, fleas and inhaled substances. These types of skin conditions are normally treated by trying to reduce the immune response with steroid injections or by controlling the symptoms with antihistamines.
Contact Dermatitis
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Contact dermatitis is a specific type of allergic dermatitis and is caused by substances that come in contact with the skin, such as shampoo, certain fabrics or just about anything that contains dyes, chemicals or fragrances or anything else your rottweiler is allergic to. This condition can usually be cured by identifying and removing the offending substance.
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Skin Infection
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Skin irritation can also be caused by infection, whether bacterial, viral or fungal. In this type of skin condition, the skin will normally be red, irritated and possibly have sores or scabs. If the skin condition is being caused by an infection, the infection is cleared through the judicious use of antibiotics or antifungal medications.
Neurogenic
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Some dogs cause skin problems out of boredom. A rottweiler who does not get enough exercise and attention may begin licking his paws, causing a moist dermatitis. This type of skin irritation has a bacterial component as well as a psychological component, both of which will need to be addressed before the dog can find relief. Antibiotic treatment will help cure the skin infection and increased exercise will help alleviate the boredom. Dogs who exhibit this type of behavior may need extensive training to completely curb the behavior.
Hygiene
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Most skin conditions in rottweilers can be treated medically. Another component of treatment of skin conditions is proper hygiene. Regularly bathing your rottweiler with medicated shampoos as well as scrubbing affected areas with antiseptic will ensure a quick and complete resolution to many skin problems.
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