Search results
Results from the WOW.Com Content Network
Skin conditions in dogs are very common, so it's important to recognize the symptoms and understand the factors that cause them. Dr. Rebecca MacMillan, a vet with over 15 years of experience, says ...
Dog with atopic dermatitis, with signs around the eye created by rubbing. Atopy is a hereditary [3] and chronic (lifelong) allergic skin disease. Signs usually begin between 6 months and 3 years of age, with some breeds of dog, such as the golden retriever, showing signs at an earlier age.
The disease in dogs can affect the lungs and skin, but more commonly the eye and central nervous system. [20] Ringworm is a fungal skin disease that in dogs is caused by Microsporum canis (70%), Microsporum gypseum (20%), and Trichophyton mentagrophytes (10%). Typical signs in dogs include hair loss and scaly skin. [21]
Pyotraumatic dermatitis is caused by self-inflicted trauma to the skin, which is incited by pain or irritation, such as infestation with fleas or lice, [4] irritation from clippers, [3] allergic skin diseases, [4] diseases of the anal sacs, [4] inflammation of the ear canal, [4] foreign bodies or irritants within the coat, [4] or pain in muscles or joints. [4]
The weakening of the skin's protective layers forms an environment susceptible to microbial infiltration, which could lead to severe complications. Intervening within an earlier time frame and targeted management strategies are essential to minimize further adverse effects. [10] Another autoimmune skin disease which can occur in dogs is vitiligo.
Dogs are susceptible to allergies much like their human companions. Most allergies occur in dogs over 6 months old. A dog that is repeatedly exposed to a particular allergen becomes sensitized to it, and the immune system overreacts to a subsequent exposure, most commonly manifesting in the form of skin irritation. [1]
Physical elements of certain dog breeds also affect susceptibility of individuals to skin problems, such as wrinkled skin or excessive skin folds. For instance, skin-fold dermatitis is a skin infection more prevalent in breeds such as the bulldog, cocker spaniel, and English Springer spaniel.
The proteins that cause allergies (mainly Fel d 1 in cats and Can f 1 in dogs) are found not only in the animals' fur or hair but also in saliva, urine, mucus, and hair roots and in the dander sloughed from the animals' skin. Thus, the widespread idea that "hypoallergenic pets" are those that have less hair or shed less is a myth.