Skin problems in dogs need to be addressed in order to keep your pet happy and healthy. Most skin conditions cause irritation which results in constant scratching and leads to distress. In severe cases it can even result in premature death.
What Causes Skin Problems In Dogs
A dog’s skin problem may be caused by something the dog has eaten, something that has come in contact with their skin or a genetic skin condition the dog has inherited.
There are 5 categories of skin problems in dogs:
1) Infections
Common dog infections include bacterial, fungal or yeast.
2) Allergic Skin Disorders
One of the most commonly over looked causes of skin problems in dogs is an allergic reaction to something in the food they are eating. Some commercially made dog foods contain minerals and dyes that can cause an allergic reaction, or even be very harmful to your dog’s body system.
3) Parasites
External parasites known as Ectoparasites include mites, fleas and ticks. These parasites can penetrate the skin barrier, leaving the area susceptible to bacterial infections.
4) Neurogenic
Is characterized by a dog excessively licking and chewing an area of their skin. Common causes include boredom, separation anxiety disorder, confinement or frustration.
5) Environment
There are many things in your home that could be irritating your dogs skin condition. Did you know that chemicals in your carpets, on your dogs collar and those on your lawn or garden maybe making your dog sick?
Are Skin Problems In Dogs Contagious?
There are both contagious and non contagious skin problems in dogs. Contagious infections include parasitic, bacterial, fungal and viral skin diseases. Mites, lice and some forms of mange are also contagious.
What Is The Best Shampoo For Skin Problems In Dogs?
The best shampoo for dogs prone to skin problems is a natural product which contains oatmeal and aloe. Oatmeal keeps the coat healthy while aloe is a natural skin treatment for both humans and animals.
You should never use a human shampoo on a dog. Dogs and humans have different skin types. Human shampoo is designed to removed oils and a dog need their natural oils to keep their coat and skin healthy. It’s best to use a dog shampoo that contains oatmeal and is formulated specifically for dogs.
Natural Treatments For Skin Problems In Dogs
These natural remedies can help to keep your dog healthy and happy.
Food allergies frequently manifest themselves as skin problems in dogs. Taking your dog off all foods that contain food color, grains and corn may completely relieve the skin problem. Feeding your dog hypoallergenic food may also solve the problem and is a common dog allergies treatment.
Baking soda and water applied directly to the skin of a dog can help to provide relief from itching.
Apple cider vinegar applied 2 or 3 times per week to the skin fold areas of the neck, groin and armpits can elevate yeast and fungus infections in your dog.
Two natural treatments for dry itchy or irritated skin in dogs are Milk of Magnesia and coconut oil. Milk of Magnesia can be applied directly to the skin using a cotton ball or cotton pad. Coconut oil can be applied directly to the effected skin area. Allow the oil to soak into the skin for 4-6 hours.
For natural cures to your dogs skin condition visit skin problems in dogs.