Dog Rash Symptoms

It is often hard for people to diagnose a dog rash because many don't actually know what exactly a dog rash is or what to expect when looking for it. Therefore, if a rash is diagnosed incorrectly, the wrong treatment can be given and the dog rash may get worse.

History

When a dog has a rash, it is caused by Candida Albicans, which is a type of yeast infection. This yeast usually inhabits the intestines of the dog and helps to get rid of harmful bacteria that exists within the body. The immune system controls the yeast. When the immune system isn't functioning properly and is weak, the yeast turns into a fungus. This fungus turns into a spot for infections to start.

Itchy Skin

Dogs that have itchy skin will often scratch themselves. This itching may not be out of the ordinary. However, it if becomes excessive, there may be an underlying problem. The dog will also tend to itch in one area, where the rash appears.

Chronic Ear Infections

Reoccurring ear infections can be a sign of a skin rash on a dog. To tell if your dog has an ear infection, look for discharge in the ear, tiredness or irritability, pain or tenderness near the ear area or redness of the inner ear.

Hair Loss

Hair loss is another sign that your dog may have a rash of the skin. When the dog is scratching excessively on the area of the rash, he is pulling off sections of hair more often than normal. Look where the hair seems to have come off and you may find the rash.

Pimples/Red Spots

One of the most common symptoms of a dog rash is red spots or pimples on the skin. The dog often will scratch or bite the area of the skin where the rash is. This will cause bald spots on the dog. If you leave the rash untreated, the area of the skin could very easily become infected.

Treatment

You can do several things at home before going to see the vet. The first thing you can try is to wash the dog's skin with dish soap to remove irritation. You may also give the dog relief with antihistamine or hydrocortisone medications. If these treatments don't work, try using a commercial coat supplement, which you can buy at your local pet store.

References

• Diagnosing & Treating a Dog Skin Rash & Dog Skin Allergies