Common Dog Skin Issues
Dog skin issues are extremely common. Dry skin, itching and hot spots can have multiple causes. It’s important to identify and treat skin problems early, before they become a much bigger problem. Let’s take a look at the more common dog skin issues:
Dry skin
Dry skin is extremely common for dogs of all breeds. Most cases of dry skin are caused by temperature changes. Just like humans, dogs get dry skin when it is cold. Using a humidifier indoors during colder months might help. In addition to temperature changes, using human shampoo, or low quality dog shampoo when bathing your pet can strip the natural oils from your dog’s skin and coat. This can lead to skin irritation as well as dry skin.
Allergies
Dog skin allergies can be caused by foods, environmental factors and inhaled irritants. Common reactions to allergens include rashes, hives, itching, baldness and irritability. The most common dog skin allergen is a reaction to the saliva of fleas. This is different than a skin reaction to a flea infestation, as it only takes one flea to create an allergic reaction. Speak to your groomer about how to treat and prevent fleas.
Hot spots
Hot spots are wounds that are moist and hot to the touch. They have a tendency to spread like wildfire. Hot spots might be caused by fleas, an allergic reaction, poor pet grooming, an irritant or an infection. Hot spots start as small wounds that are then licked and scratched by the dog until they become infected. Because of the wide range of possible causes, hot spots require a trip to your veterinarian.
Skin diseases and infections
There are so many different dog skin diseases and infections that it can be difficult to know where to start. Common dog skin diseases range from impetigo in puppies to breed specific diseases of the skin. If you suspect that your dog has a skin disease or infection it’s important to take them to the vet for advice and medication. Grooming should not be attempted until after diagnosis because many infections can be spread through the grooming process.
We hope that this information has been helpful as we strive to provide education on all aspects of pet care.
Claws N Paws Day Spa offers quality dog and cat grooming in Orange County, California. We can help you with your pet’s grooming needs this spring. For more information, or to schedule a grooming appointment, please call 714-962-1005.
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