Skin Problems on Dogs

Dogs that bite, scratch and lick themselves excessively will most likely have a skin condition. Dogs can have many different types of skin conditions, sometimes having more than one at a time.

Environmental Dermatitis (Contact or Allergic Dermatitis)

Environmental causes can induce skin conditions in dogs. Dogs generally present in normal body condition and health with the exception of itching and possible hair loss. Causes of irritation include grasses, thistles, moisture and slight injury.

Food Allergy Dermatitis

The ingredient to which the dog has sensitivity generally classifies food causes. Nutritional skin conditions can also be caused by a lack of specific nutrients in the diet.

Parasitic Dermatitis

Parasites cause the greatest number of skin conditions in dogs. External parasites that cause conditions are fleas, ticks, lice, chiggers, mange mites, mosquitoes and flies. Internal parasites can cause skin conditions by robbing the dog of nutrients or by living close to the surface of the skin.

Infectious Dermatitis

Infectious dermatitis is caused by an overgrowth of yeast, bacteria or fungi on the skin. In these types of infections, itching and hair loss will be accompanied by reddened, irritated, or broken skin.

Neurogenic Dermatitis

Neurogenic dermatitis is caused by the dog himself. Chronic boredom and obsessive-compulsive behaviors are the usual underlying contributors.

References

• The Pet Center