Ask the Vet | 6 Types of Canine Dermatitis

Canine dermatitis is a general term for common canine skin infections. This condition is quite common and plagues dogs of all breeds and ages. Here are six common types of dog dermatitis:

Canine Atopi

Canine atopic dermatitis is also known as allergic dermatitis or canine atopy. This condition develops from allergens in the environment such as grass, pollen, fleas and dust mites. Dogs with atopy will often scratch, rub, lick, chew and bite different areas of their skin causing redness and sometimes hair loss.

Acral Lick Dermatitis

Canine acral lick dermatitis, sometimes called lick granuloma, occurs due to the continuous licking of a specific area. This area will become infected eventually.

Contact Dermatitis

Canine contact dermatitis occurs when the skin comes into contact with an irritant. Common causes are household chemicals such as bleach and carpet cleaners, fertilizer and even flea collars. The exposed skin will become red and itchy.

Sarcoptic Mange

Canine Sarcoptic Mange is caused by the Sarcoptes mite. This condition is extremely irritating and usually affects the ears, abdomen, legs and chest of the dog.

Pyotraumatic Dermatitis or Hot Spots

Hot spots are caused by bacteria normally found on the skin and occur when your dog incessantly scratches and chews the area. The area will look painful, red, moist and hairless. This condition is more common in hot, humid weather and can be triggered by any allergen.

Flea Allergy Dermatitis

Canine flea allergy dermatitis is exactly what it sounds like, an allergic reaction to a flea bite. More specifically, the saliva of the flea causes this condition. Dogs with this allergy will constantly itch and may develop hot spots. By Dr Ruan Du Toit Bester

Hope this info helps
Till next week
Dr Ruan 

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