Finding the proper treatment for dog skin problems lies in finding the underlying reason for them. A trip to the vet will be the best course of action to take to determine what the cause is in order to find a resolution that is speedy and lasting. The vet will take a look at such factors as the season it is, the dog's diet, where the discomfort is located and the breed of the pet.
Some dogs have allergies to certain ingredients in their dog food, others can have seasonal allergies. If the dog is not too old the problem could be genetic. Take a look at the size and the shape of the irritation as well as how far it has spread and let the vet know what was discovered. If it is not widespread it could be a fungal or a bacterial problem in just that one spot.
Just one flea could cause a dog to be miserable, this could be the reason for all the scratching if the dog is allergic to fleas and they will get a rash from the bite. If you feel a lump, there could be a tumor that needs to be removed. An abnormal growth will cause changes in the color of the skin and the hair. For the dog with a dull coat, this could be an indicator of a hormonal issue.
The best bet is to have the dog tested to see if there is an infection present, as soon as the results come back a treatment plan can be started. Antibiotics are prescribed when the test comes back positive for a bacterial infection. These infections are usually caused by hormones or allergies.
Antibiotics are usually administered for 3 to 12 weeks depending on the condition. An allergy reaction can cause itchy skin, allergy shots can be used in this case. Some dogs are allergic to pollen. Antihistamines may also be needed, but they can cause drowsiness.
Seborrhea is a condition that refers to the accumulation of keratin that blocks the sebaceous glands and causes the hair to become greasy and the skin to become dry. Certain breeds are prone to this disorder, but it could be due to allergies, parasites or hormonal problems. Treatment involves elimination of the underlying cause, natural remedies can boost the immune system and strengthen the coat and skin. The use of cleansing lotions can help.
To alleviate itchiness, fatty acids are very helpful such as linoleic acids that are found in sunflower, safflower and primrose oils. As with humans, fish oil is a great supplement to give to ones pet to clear up their itchiness. Shots of glucocorticoids can alleviate the discomfort for a month or two and are usually administered in the allergy season and for specific allergies. There has also been good results with homeopathic remedies.
If a food allergy is suspected, the best approach is to try a hypoallergenic diet. This should be tested for 10 weeks to see if there is improvement. Some dog foods have hypoallergenic diets and could be a simple method to tell if this is the problem. This type of dog food usually contains only one simple protein, usually fish, and one simple carbohydrate, usually potatoes, and nothing artificial in the ingredients, coloring or flavors. This will determine if proteins are the problem.
Some dogs have allergies to certain ingredients in their dog food, others can have seasonal allergies. If the dog is not too old the problem could be genetic. Take a look at the size and the shape of the irritation as well as how far it has spread and let the vet know what was discovered. If it is not widespread it could be a fungal or a bacterial problem in just that one spot.
Just one flea could cause a dog to be miserable, this could be the reason for all the scratching if the dog is allergic to fleas and they will get a rash from the bite. If you feel a lump, there could be a tumor that needs to be removed. An abnormal growth will cause changes in the color of the skin and the hair. For the dog with a dull coat, this could be an indicator of a hormonal issue.
The best bet is to have the dog tested to see if there is an infection present, as soon as the results come back a treatment plan can be started. Antibiotics are prescribed when the test comes back positive for a bacterial infection. These infections are usually caused by hormones or allergies.
Antibiotics are usually administered for 3 to 12 weeks depending on the condition. An allergy reaction can cause itchy skin, allergy shots can be used in this case. Some dogs are allergic to pollen. Antihistamines may also be needed, but they can cause drowsiness.
Seborrhea is a condition that refers to the accumulation of keratin that blocks the sebaceous glands and causes the hair to become greasy and the skin to become dry. Certain breeds are prone to this disorder, but it could be due to allergies, parasites or hormonal problems. Treatment involves elimination of the underlying cause, natural remedies can boost the immune system and strengthen the coat and skin. The use of cleansing lotions can help.
To alleviate itchiness, fatty acids are very helpful such as linoleic acids that are found in sunflower, safflower and primrose oils. As with humans, fish oil is a great supplement to give to ones pet to clear up their itchiness. Shots of glucocorticoids can alleviate the discomfort for a month or two and are usually administered in the allergy season and for specific allergies. There has also been good results with homeopathic remedies.
If a food allergy is suspected, the best approach is to try a hypoallergenic diet. This should be tested for 10 weeks to see if there is improvement. Some dog foods have hypoallergenic diets and could be a simple method to tell if this is the problem. This type of dog food usually contains only one simple protein, usually fish, and one simple carbohydrate, usually potatoes, and nothing artificial in the ingredients, coloring or flavors. This will determine if proteins are the problem.
About the Author:
Jennifer is a canine health specialist who specializes in treatment for skin allergies in dogs.
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