Skin Infections in Dogs:

It is not unusual for dogs to suffer from minor skin rashes and allergies. Disorders like itchy and bumpy skin, canine acne, dandruff and lesions are among the most common dermatological problems that dogs are susceptible to. The most common cause of skin infection in canines is the staphylococci bacteria, which mostly affect the trunk. Typically, yellowish pustules appear on the dog’s skin that later turn rough and scaly and may cause local loss of hair. Parasites growing on the skin of the dog, allergens present in the immediate environment and abnormal functioning of the dog’s immune system are other factors that may lead to skin disorders in dogs. Young pups also suffer from ringworms, which is caused by fungal growth on the skin. The loss of hair in small, circular patches is the telltale sign of this condition. Since your pet cannot easily communicate to you minor discomforts, you should be observant as to whether your dog scratches or licks itself constantly or chews its paws. The appearance of moist, red “hot spots” on the dog’s skin may also indicate an allergic reaction to mold, dust, pollen, flea saliva and chemicals present in certain pet care products. If the condition is allergic in nature, your dog may also suffer from symptoms like sneezing, wheezing and discharge from the eyes and the nose. Unless the problem is persistent or recurrent, there is no need to worry. You may of course consult a vet and get medical tests done just to make sure that your dog is not suffering from any serious internal ailment.

These skin conditions can be treated through natural means at home in most cases. Make sure that you get rid of fleas that may be infesting your pet’s hair and skin. Give your dog a thorough bath with water and an antibiotic shampoo containing benzoyl peroxide. You should dry the dog’s skin and hair completely and then apply an antibiotic ointment on the lesions or the crusty patches. You may also give your dog a bath in a solution of colloidal oatmeal and lukewarm water in order to destroy germs on its skin and thereby relieve it of itching and irritation. Another means of treating skin conditions in canines is to grind two aspirin tablets in a tablespoon of alcohol, add a cup of warm water to this mixture, dip a tea bag in this solution and apply it locally on the itchy patches on the skin.