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How Is Ringworm in Dogs Spread? Ringworm in dogs spreads through direct contact with the fungus. This can happen when a dog comes in direct contact with an infected animal or person.
In dogs, ringworm usually starts as circular areas of hair loss, or round bald spots. This is where ringworm gets its name—the main clinical sign is a “ring” of hair loss. You may see one spot or several on your dog’s skin, usually depending on when you catch it.
Key Takeaways: How Do Dogs Get Ringworm? Ringworm is a fungal infection that can afflict dogs and other animals (including humans) . Any dog can contract ringworm, but it is most common among puppies, senior dogs, and those with weakened immune systems.
How do Dogs Get Ringworm? Dogs get ringworm through direct or indirect contact with infected animals or soil. The most common source of infections is direct contact with a ringworm-carrying animal.
Ringworm is mainly spread by direct contact with infected animals but can also be transmitted by contact with contaminated objects, ranging from a food bowl to the carpet. Fungal spores can survive in the environment, including on all household surfaces and upholstery, for up to almost two years.
The most common way to treat ringworm in dogs is to use a combination of topical therapy (application of creams, ointments, or shampoos) and systemic therapy (administration of anti-fungal drugs by mouth). For treatment to be successful, all environmental contamination must be eliminated.
How Do Dogs Get Ringworm? Ringworm spreads easily by direct contact with an infected animal or person or by touching contaminated objects, like food bowls, bedding, a brush, and even contaminated surfaces in your home like furniture or carpeting.
In dogs, about 70% of ringworm cases are caused by the fungus Microsporum canis, 20% by Microsporum gypseum, and 10% by Trichophyton mentagrophytes. In young or debilitated animals and in Yorkshire Terriers, infection may be persistent and widespread.
Dogs often acquire ringworm — or dermatophytosis, as your veterinarian might refer to it — from digging. It's relatively easy to treat and doesn't cause severe disease. However, ringworm in dogs can be difficult to manage, due to the fact that it's highly contagious and can be transmitted via fomites.
How Do Dogs Get Ringworm? Ringworm in dogs spreads through direct contact with the fungus. This can happen when a dog comes in contact with an infected animal or person or touches a contaminated object like furniture, carpets, or grooming tools.