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Red, Itchy, Irritated, or Flakey Skin

by Krista Mifflin
for About.com



Irritated skin can make your dog miserable. It's no picnic for you either, as you listen to your buddy scratch all night. Unfortunately there's a wide range of health issues that can skin to be itchy, and sometimes pinning down the problem can be a lot of work.

  • Mange - Sarcoptic and demodectic mange are both caused by different skin mites. Proper diagnosis and identification by your veterinarian is critical for correct treatment.


  • Other Mites - Cheyletiella, Ear mites


  • Ringworm


  • Yeast Infection - Malassezia Dermatitis, a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of the body's normal yeast. Often diagnosed after other possible causes are ruled out.


  • Flea Allergy Dermatitis - an allergic reaction to the bite of fleas on your dog's skin.


  • Atopic Dermatitis - Environmental allergies, like pollen and dustmites can give your dog itchy skin and goopy eyes. There are medications available to help ease the irritations that go along with allergies.


  • Food Allergies - This is a partial list of foods free of these ingredients. Often overlooked until everything else has been covered, food allergies are surpising common in dogs. Corn, wheat, and soy are the biggest food allergens in dog food.


  • Many treatments are available, and your vet will be able to help you start a treatment program that will have your dog comfortable again in no time.



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