Does your dog scratch himself a lot? Have you noticed redness, flaking, or scaliness on your pet’s skin? Dogs can suffer from a wide variety of skin problems, none of which are very much fun for Fido. In this article from Westside Animal Hospital, a Savannah, GA vet discusses skin problems in dogs.

Types of Skin Problems

Dogs can suffer from over 160 different skin problems. While many of these issues cannot be cured, they can be managed with proper treatment, which may include medication, special diets, and supplements. It’s worth noting that breed often plays a role in doggy skin troubles. For instance, Cocker Spaniels and West Highland White Terriers are both prone to yeast infections, while Golden Retrievers often develop hormonal imbalances. Wrinkled pups, such as Shar-peis, tend to develop a variety of skin problems.

Symptoms

Some common signs of skin trouble in dogs include lesions, scabs, itching, rashes, bald spots, swelling, lumps, hot spots, redness, discoloration, scaling, and inflammation. Since these symptoms can all be caused by several different issues, it’s important to get your pup tested to determine just what is causing his issues. Once a diagnosis has been made, your vet will be able to discuss specific treatment options. Keep in mind that, because it takes time for new skin to grow, certain skin problems can take some time to resolve.

Tips

Your pet’s exact care needs will depend on his breed, age, and condition, so be sure to get specific advice from your vet. That said, there are a few rules of thumb you can follow. First and foremost, make sure your pooch is getting a good, nourishing diet. Look for brands that promote good skin health. Certain ingredients, such as omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, can be very beneficial for your dog’s skin and coat. Vitamins and minerals are also important. Avoid brands with a lot of fillers, such as wheat and corn. Once you find products that agree with Fido, stick to them: sudden dietary changes can cause skin problems to flare up. Wash your pet’s bedding regularly, using unscented detergent and the hottest cycle you have. It’s also important to keep up with Fido’s grooming needs: bathe your pup regularly, and use wipes between baths. Do you know or suspect that your dog has skin problems? Please contact Westside Animal Hospital, your Savannah, GA animal clinic, anytime!