Disclaimer: If you purchase items through links on our site we may earn a commission.<\/em><\/p>\n Dogs definitely put the capital D in diversity in terms of size, looks and temperaments. But the vitality of every dog of every age can be strongly linked to the health of his skin and coat. Quick anatomy lesson: A dog\u2019s skin represents the largest organ, with the liver coming in a distant second. The three layers of skin \u2014 the epidermis (outer), dermis (middle) and subcutis (inner) team up to regulate body temperature, shield against infectious invaders, provide sensory information from the environment and much more.<\/p>\n \u201cPeople can\u2019t see the liver, pancreas or the bones in their dogs, so a disease, such as diabetes, can progress undetected for months,\u201d says Dr. Lowell Ackerman, a board-certified veterinary dermatologist from Westborough, Massachusetts, who is a global veterinary consultant and author of several veterinary textbooks. \u201cBut when there is a problem with the skin, even a minor one, people are more apt to seek veterinary care for their dogs.\u201d<\/p>\n The challenge, he says, is determining what is causing the rash, the bald spot, the swelling and the oily skin or dark spots. That\u2019s why veterinary dermatologists often tap into their pet detective skills.<\/p>\n \u201cSkin is only capable of certain changes, but there can be many causes,\u201d Dr. Ackerman says. \u201cFactoring the dog\u2019s breed, age and when the skin issue started can definitely help us make the right diagnosis.\u201d<\/p>\n Let\u2019s take a closer look at these eight canine skin issues with a pair of experts from SeniorTailWaggers.com \u2014 Dr. Jamie Whittenburg, director of the Kingsgate Animal Hospital in Lubbock, Texas, and Dr. Debra Eldredge, an award-winning author of more than 20 pet books, including the Dog Owner\u2019s Home Veterinary Handbook.<\/p>\n It can be widespread or in just one area on the body.<\/p>\n Possible causes:<\/strong> bacterial or fungal infection, Cushing\u2019s disease, hypothyroidism, parasites, allergies to food or plants, autoimmune disorders or seasonal flank alopecia.<\/p>\n Solutions:<\/strong> \u201cHair loss in dogs is often due to an endocrine disease, such as Cushing\u2019s or hypothyroidism,\u201d says Dr. Whittenburg. \u201cFungal infection can be treated with oral medications, dips or shampoos. Allergies cannot be cured, but can be controlled through medications, shampoos and special diets. Melatonin can be given to aid in hair regrowth for dogs who suffer from seasonal flank alopecia. There are many treatment options for dogs with autoimmune disorders.\u201d<\/p>\n They can be similar to a rash on a dog\u2019s skin, but more likely to appear even on haired areas. You tend to notice their presence before seeing them.<\/p>\n Possible causes:<\/strong> Itchy skin bumps are usually due to allergies or insect bites from black flies, mites and lice. They can also be initial symptoms of bacterial infections.<\/p>\n \u201cIf the bumps are accompanied by a moist discharge or erosions in the skin, you should contact your veterinarian right away,\u201d Dr. Eldredge says. \u201cThe same is true if your dog is in respiratory distress, as these bumps may be hives and indicative of a potentially serious allergic reaction.\u201d<\/p>\n Solutions:<\/strong> A veterinary exam will include skin scrapes, impression smears and, possibly, a skin biopsy to aid in identifying the cause. Treatments can range from medicated shampoos to antibiotics to corticosteroids.<\/p>\n The dog may also be itchy.<\/p>\n Possible causes:<\/strong> The presence of parasites like fleas, lice and mites as well as autoimmune disorders, allergies, bacterial or fungal infections or dry skin are some causes, according to Dr. Whittenburg.<\/p>\n Solutions:<\/strong> Year-round administration of parasite medications, medications to fortify the immune system, medicated shampoos to address allergies and adding oral fatty acid supplements and moisturizing shampoo to combat dry skin.<\/p>\n These conditions \u2014 called seborrheic dermatitis \u2014 come in dry and oily forms.<\/p>\n Possible causes:<\/strong> This disease can be genetic and is common in Cocker Spaniels, West Highland White Terriers and Basset Hounds,\u201d Dr. Eldredge says. \u201cAny dog may develop this condition secondary to another issues.\u201d<\/p>\n Solutions:<\/strong> Both dry and oily forms are treated with medications and skin supplements.<\/p>\n This skin condition ranks as a major reason dogs are brought to veterinarians to address the dog\u2019s constant pawing at his skin and rolling on the ground for relief from itch. Or the dog will be shaking his head or scratching one or both ears.<\/p>\n Possible causes:<\/strong> The presence of fleas or ticks, allergies, ear infections and dry skin top the reasons for itchy skin.<\/p>\n Solutions:<\/strong> \u00a0\u201cTesting is needed to determine the cause of the itching, and that could include skin scraping, bloodwork, skin biopsies, cultures and ear cytology,\u201d Dr. Whittenburg says. \u201cMedications, shampoos and diet can be used to control dog allergies, while oral supplements and medicated shampoos can help moisturize the skin and stop the itch.\u201d<\/p>\n Also known as hyperpigmentation, they can be widespread or limited to small spots on the skin. It tends to be a secondary condition.<\/p>\n Possible causes:<\/strong> Skin trauma, skin cancer, hypothyroidism or aging top the list.<\/p>\n \u201cTo find the cause of hyperpigmentation, your veterinarian will perform biopsies and blood work after obtaining a thorough history and doing a physical examination,\u201d Dr. Whittenburg says. \u201cWe find that as dogs age, especially Schnauzers and Dachshunds, the skin on their chests and abdomens may darken. This is harmless and normal for many older dogs.\u201d<\/p>\n Solutions: <\/strong>Depending on the identified cause, a dog is treated with medicated shampoos, thyroid supplements, immunosuppressants or steroids.<\/p>\n Most of the time, the stinky smell is benign.<\/p>\n Possible causes:<\/strong> The stinky smell may be caused by your dog rolling and rubbing in deer feces or other dog feces during a walk in the woods or because he got sprayed by a skunk. Or it may be due to the fact that he has not had a proper bath in months.<\/p>\n Solutions:<\/strong> Get in the habit of regularly inspecting your dog\u2019s coat for any dried, stinky materials. Check with your veterinarian on selecting the right shampoo best suited for your dog\u2019s type of coat.<\/p>\n Your dog\u2019s skin and hair work overtime and take on many vital duties, no matter if he is a nearly hairless breed like a Chihuahua or a major fluff ball like an Old English Sheepdog. With these solutions, you can stay on top of skin issues to keep your dog comfortable in his own skin.<\/p>\n Usually there is no discharge present with this reddish patch on the skin.<\/p>\n Possible causes:<\/strong> \u201cA red rash is often an allergic reaction to things like insect bites or as a result of a contact dermatitis reaction,\u201d Dr. Eldredge says. \u201cThink about anything you have changed in your household, such as a new rug or a new floor cleaning product or a new detergent used to wash your dog\u2019s bed.\u201d<\/p>\n However, if the rash is moist, than yeast may be the leading culprit.<\/p>\n Solutions:<\/strong> Expect your veterinarian to do a thorough check on your dog for the presence of parasites. Skin scrapes may be used to rule out various mange mites. An itchy rash may benefit from a medicated shampoo while topical or oral steroids may be needed to address your dog\u2019s discomfort. Antibiotics or antifungal medications may be prescribed if bacteria or yeast are found.<\/p>\n \u201cIf the rash is widely distributed and not itchy, you may actually be seeing areas of ecchymosis (small hemorrhages) under the skin,\u201d Dr. Eldredge adds. \u201cThis may represent an autoimmune disease or a bleeding disorder and is a concern for immediate veterinary attention.\u201d<\/p>\n Dr. Eldredge shares this home remedy:<\/p>\n In a bucket, mix:<\/strong><\/p>\n Work the foaming mixture well into the coat and leave on for five minutes. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and follow up with dog shampoo if desired.<\/p>\n \u201cIf your dog is squinting and may be sprayed in the face and eyes, you need \u00a0to see your veterinarian,\u201d she adds. \u00a0\u201cOtherwise, a cleansing or two at home should be all you need.\u201d<\/p>\n Give your dog\u2019s skin some love, as good skin \u2014 whether for dogs or humans \u2014 takes a little work. Here are a few products available today that do just that.<\/p>\n Spina Organics Daily Facial Cleanse<\/strong><\/a>;\u2004$17.50 This tear-, alcohol- and rinse-free cleanser uses micellar water to attract and trap dirt and debris, plus has anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, antifungal and insecticidal properties.<\/em><\/p>\n Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Grooming Wipes<\/strong><\/a>; $9.99 Clean your pup between baths with these vanilla and almond scented, soothing, plant-based wipes made for dogs with itchy, dry skin.<\/em><\/p>\n WashBar Paw Balm \u2014 Kanuka & Repair<\/strong><\/a>;\u2004$14.99 Essential oils blend with beeswax to soothe and moisturize paws. The balm doesn\u2019t contain harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, colors, sulfates or parabens.<\/em><\/p>\n Zymox Shampoo<\/strong><\/a>; $17.11 A soothing and nourishing formula that blends enzymes, protein and Vitamin D for gentle cleaning and healthy skin support, plus great for itchy, irritated or inflamed skin.<\/em><\/p>\n The post Pup Got Skin Trouble?<\/a> by Arden Moore<\/a> appeared first on Dogster<\/a>. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n \n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<\/p>\n The post Pup Got Skin Trouble?<\/a> by Arden Moore<\/a> appeared first on Dogster<\/a>. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.<\/p>\n Disclaimer: If you purchase items through links on our site we may earn a commission.<\/em><\/p>\n Dogs definitely put the capital D in diversity in terms of size, looks and temperaments. But the vitality of every dog of every age can be strongly linked to the health of his skin and coat. Quick anatomy lesson: A dog\u2019s skin represents the largest organ, with the liver coming in a distant second. The three layers of skin \u2014 the epidermis (outer), dermis (middle) and subcutis (inner) team up to regulate body temperature, shield against infectious invaders, provide sensory information from the environment and much more.<\/p>\n \u201cPeople can\u2019t see the liver, pancreas or the bones in their dogs, so a disease, such as diabetes, can progress undetected for months,\u201d says Dr. Lowell Ackerman, a board-certified veterinary dermatologist from Westborough, Massachusetts, who is a global veterinary consultant and author of several veterinary textbooks. \u201cBut when there is a problem with the skin, even a minor one, people are more apt to seek veterinary care for their dogs.\u201d<\/p>\n The challenge, he says, is determining what is causing the rash, the bald spot, the swelling and the oily skin or dark spots. That\u2019s why veterinary dermatologists often tap into their pet detective skills.<\/p>\n \u201cSkin is only capable of certain changes, but there can be many causes,\u201d Dr. Ackerman says. \u201cFactoring the dog\u2019s breed, age and when the skin issue started can definitely help us make the right diagnosis.\u201d<\/p>\n Let\u2019s take a closer look at these eight canine skin issues with a pair of experts from SeniorTailWaggers.com \u2014 Dr. Jamie Whittenburg, director of the Kingsgate Animal Hospital in Lubbock, Texas, and Dr. Debra Eldredge, an award-winning author of more than 20 pet books, including the Dog Owner\u2019s Home Veterinary Handbook.<\/p>\n It can be widespread or in just one area on the body.<\/p>\n Possible causes:<\/strong> bacterial or fungal infection, Cushing\u2019s disease, hypothyroidism, parasites, allergies to food or plants, autoimmune disorders or seasonal flank alopecia.<\/p>\n Solutions:<\/strong> \u201cHair loss in dogs is often due to an endocrine disease, such as Cushing\u2019s or hypothyroidism,\u201d says Dr. Whittenburg. \u201cFungal infection can be treated with oral medications, dips or shampoos. Allergies cannot be cured, but can be controlled through medications, shampoos and special diets. Melatonin can be given to aid in hair regrowth for dogs who suffer from seasonal flank alopecia. There are many treatment options for dogs with autoimmune disorders.\u201d<\/p>\n They can be similar to a rash on a dog\u2019s skin, but more likely to appear even on haired areas. You tend to notice their presence before seeing them.<\/p>\n Possible causes:<\/strong> Itchy skin bumps are usually due to allergies or insect bites from black flies, mites and lice. They can also be initial symptoms of bacterial infections.<\/p>\n \u201cIf the bumps are accompanied by a moist discharge or erosions in the skin, you should contact your veterinarian right away,\u201d Dr. Eldredge says. \u201cThe same is true if your dog is in respiratory distress, as these bumps may be hives and indicative of a potentially serious allergic reaction.\u201d<\/p>\n Solutions:<\/strong> A veterinary exam will include skin scrapes, impression smears and, possibly, a skin biopsy to aid in identifying the cause. Treatments can range from medicated shampoos to antibiotics to corticosteroids.<\/p>\n The dog may also be itchy.<\/p>\n Possible causes:<\/strong> The presence of parasites like fleas, lice and mites as well as autoimmune disorders, allergies, bacterial or fungal infections or dry skin are some causes, according to Dr. Whittenburg.<\/p>\n Solutions:<\/strong> Year-round administration of parasite medications, medications to fortify the immune system, medicated shampoos to address allergies and adding oral fatty acid supplements and moisturizing shampoo to combat dry skin.<\/p>\n These conditions \u2014 called seborrheic dermatitis \u2014 come in dry and oily forms.<\/p>\n Possible causes:<\/strong> This disease can be genetic and is common in Cocker Spaniels, West Highland White Terriers and Basset Hounds,\u201d Dr. Eldredge says. \u201cAny dog may develop this condition secondary to another issues.\u201d<\/p>\n Solutions:<\/strong> Both dry and oily forms are treated with medications and skin supplements.<\/p>\n This skin condition ranks as a major reason dogs are brought to veterinarians to address the dog\u2019s constant pawing at his skin and rolling on the ground for relief from itch. Or the dog will be shaking his head or scratching one or both ears.<\/p>\n Possible causes:<\/strong> The presence of fleas or ticks, allergies, ear infections and dry skin top the reasons for itchy skin.<\/p>\n Solutions:<\/strong> \u00a0\u201cTesting is needed to determine the cause of the itching, and that could include skin scraping, bloodwork, skin biopsies, cultures and ear cytology,\u201d Dr. Whittenburg says. \u201cMedications, shampoos and diet can be used to control dog allergies, while oral supplements and medicated shampoos can help moisturize the skin and stop the itch.\u201d<\/p>\n Also known as hyperpigmentation, they can be widespread or limited to small spots on the skin. It tends to be a secondary condition.<\/p>\n Possible causes:<\/strong> Skin trauma, skin cancer, hypothyroidism or aging top the list.<\/p>\n \u201cTo find the cause of hyperpigmentation, your veterinarian will perform biopsies and blood work after obtaining a thorough history and doing a physical examination,\u201d Dr. Whittenburg says. \u201cWe find that as dogs age, especially Schnauzers and Dachshunds, the skin on their chests and abdomens may darken. This is harmless and normal for many older dogs.\u201d<\/p>\n Solutions: <\/strong>Depending on the identified cause, a dog is treated with medicated shampoos, thyroid supplements, immunosuppressants or steroids.<\/p>\n Most of the time, the stinky smell is benign.<\/p>\n Possible causes:<\/strong> The stinky smell may be caused by your dog rolling and rubbing in deer feces or other dog feces during a walk in the woods or because he got sprayed by a skunk. Or it may be due to the fact that he has not had a proper bath in months.<\/p>\n Solutions:<\/strong> Get in the habit of regularly inspecting your dog\u2019s coat for any dried, stinky materials. Check with your veterinarian on selecting the right shampoo best suited for your dog\u2019s type of coat.<\/p>\n Your dog\u2019s skin and hair work overtime and take on many vital duties, no matter if he is a nearly hairless breed like a Chihuahua or a major fluff ball like an Old English Sheepdog. With these solutions, you can stay on top of skin issues to keep your dog comfortable in his own skin.<\/p>\n Usually there is no discharge present with this reddish patch on the skin.<\/p>\n Possible causes:<\/strong> \u201cA red rash is often an allergic reaction to things like insect bites or as a result of a contact dermatitis reaction,\u201d Dr. Eldredge says. \u201cThink about anything you have changed in your household, such as a new rug or a new floor cleaning product or a new detergent used to wash your dog\u2019s bed.\u201d<\/p>\n However, if the rash is moist, than yeast may be the leading culprit.<\/p>\n Solutions:<\/strong> Expect your veterinarian to do a thorough check on your dog for the presence of parasites. Skin scrapes may be used to rule out various mange mites. An itchy rash may benefit from a medicated shampoo while topical or oral steroids may be needed to address your dog\u2019s discomfort. Antibiotics or antifungal medications may be prescribed if bacteria or yeast are found.<\/p>\n \u201cIf the rash is widely distributed and not itchy, you may actually be seeing areas of ecchymosis (small hemorrhages) under the skin,\u201d Dr. Eldredge adds. \u201cThis may represent an autoimmune disease or a bleeding disorder and is a concern for immediate veterinary attention.\u201d<\/p>\n Dr. Eldredge shares this home remedy:<\/p>\n In a bucket, mix:<\/strong><\/p>\n Work the foaming mixture well into the coat and leave on for five minutes. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and follow up with dog shampoo if desired.<\/p>\n \u201cIf your dog is squinting and may be sprayed in the face and eyes, you need \u00a0to see your veterinarian,\u201d she adds. \u00a0\u201cOtherwise, a cleansing or two at home should be all you need.\u201d<\/p>\n Give your dog\u2019s skin some love, as good skin \u2014 whether for dogs or humans \u2014 takes a little work. Here are a few products available today that do just that.<\/p>\n Spina Organics Daily Facial Cleanse<\/strong><\/a>;\u2004$17.50 This tear-, alcohol- and rinse-free cleanser uses micellar water to attract and trap dirt and debris, plus has anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, antifungal and insecticidal properties.<\/em><\/p>\n Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Grooming Wipes<\/strong><\/a>; $9.99 Clean your pup between baths with these vanilla and almond scented, soothing, plant-based wipes made for dogs with itchy, dry skin.<\/em><\/p>\n WashBar Paw Balm \u2014 Kanuka & Repair<\/strong><\/a>;\u2004$14.99 Essential oils blend with beeswax to soothe and moisturize paws. The balm doesn\u2019t contain harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, colors, sulfates or parabens.<\/em><\/p>\n Zymox Shampoo<\/strong><\/a>; $17.11 A soothing and nourishing formula that blends enzymes, protein and Vitamin D for gentle cleaning and healthy skin support, plus great for itchy, irritated or inflamed skin.<\/em><\/p>\n The post Pup Got Skin Trouble?<\/a> by Arden Moore<\/a> appeared first on Dogster<\/a>. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren’t considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n \n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-13932","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"yoast_head":"\nHair loss<\/h3>\n
Red skin bumps<\/h3>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/s36700.pcdn.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Dog_Fur_getty471795634-442x600.jpg.optimal.jpg\")
Crusty skin<\/h3>\n
Flaky skin that is dry or oily<\/h3>\n
Itchy skin<\/h3>\n
Black spots<\/h3>\n
Bad-smelling hair & skin<\/h3>\n
Red rashes<\/h3>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/s36700.pcdn.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Dog_Itch_getty1254955582-429x600.png\")
Help for Skunk Stink<\/h3>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/s36700.pcdn.co\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/A_Skunk_Getty824170390-584x600.png\")
\n
Get the skinny on skin products<\/h3>\n
Hair loss<\/h3>\n
Red skin bumps<\/h3>\n
Crusty skin<\/h3>\n
Flaky skin that is dry or oily<\/h3>\n
Itchy skin<\/h3>\n
Black spots<\/h3>\n
Bad-smelling hair & skin<\/h3>\n
Red rashes<\/h3>\n
Help for Skunk Stink<\/h3>\n
\n
Get the skinny on skin products<\/h3>\n