Mange is a common condition in dogs caused by microscopic mites. These parasites can impact your dog’s comfort as it triggers intense itching, hair loss, and skin infections. Fortunately, mange is preventable through simple measures.

To protect your dog against mange, it’s essential to learn the causes of this skin disease and what you can do when your dog begins showing symptoms. 

In this article, we’ll discuss the different types of mange, their causes, symptoms, treatments, and preventive measures to protect your dog’s health.

 

What Is Mange?

Mange is a skin disease that occurs in dogs. When parasitic mites burrow into the skin or live in the hair follicles, dogs may experience extreme irritation and skin damage. 

Preventing this skin problem is vital in keeping your dog comfortable because it can take weeks for dogs to fully recover from mange.

 

Types of Mange in Dogs

Mange has three kinds, and because of their causes, all of them are highly contagious. Each of these types has its unique symptoms, and dog owners must be aware of them to understand how they can be treated.

1. Sarcoptic Mange (Scabies) 

   Sarcoptic mange, more commonly known as scabies, is caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. It’s contagious and can quickly be transmitted to dogs. Humans may also be temporarily affected. Scabies can cause intense itching, crusty skin lesions, and hair loss, which often appears on the elbows, ears, and belly. 

2. Demodex Mange in Dogs 

   Demodex mange is also caused by mites, but it’s a different kind compared to scabies. The Demodex canis mites are parasites that get into the dog’s skin and hair follicles. Some dogs might not have any issues with these mites. However, dogs with a weak immune system, like puppies, might get infested and experience symptoms. The signs your dog has Demodex mange include scaly skin and hair loss around the eyes, face, and paws.

3. Otodectic Mange (Ear Mites) 

   Pet owners may know about ear mites in dogs, but not many understand that it’s a type of mange. Otodectic mange affects dogs’ ears and is also common in puppies. The Otodectes cynotis mites feed on the wax and oils in a dog’s ear canal, which causes severe irritation. Because of these mites, dogs may often scratch around the ears and shake their heads constantly. A foul-smelling discharge can also appear from their ears.

 

General Symptoms of Canine Mange

 

 

 

Mange symptoms can vary depending on the type of mite causing it. Still, there are common signs that you’ll notice when your dog has this skin disease.

• Severe itching and scratching
• Hair loss and bald patches
• Skin appears red and inflamed
• Crusty and scaly lesions
• Secondary skin infections

 

When your dog’s condition worsens, it may lead to weakness, weight loss, and an obvious decline in your pet’s overall health. This is why early detection of this problem is important to prevent complications.

 

Causes of Mange in Dogs

While you may already know the types of mange and the parasites that cause them, it’s also important to learn how your dogs can get these mites.

Three factors can cause mange in dogs: weak immune systems, exposure to infected animals, and poor hygiene.

Puppies, seniors, and malnourished dogs are the most vulnerable to mites that lead to mange. Failing to groom dogs properly and regularly can make them more prone to getting these mange-causing mites. 

Healthy dogs can still develop mange if they get in close contact with infected animals or contaminated surfaces. This may occur in overcrowded spaces, like multi-pet households and poorly maintained boarding facilities.

 

How Vets Diagnose Mange

If you suspect your dog has mange, schedule a vet consultation immediately. Veterinary clinics in Dubai often diagnose mange through a series of tests.

 

• Physical Examination – The diagnosis begins with the vet observing visible signs of mange, like lesions and itching.

 

• Skin Scraping – To identify the type of mite that’s infested your dog, your vet may scrape the skin to get samples that will be examined under a microscope.

 

• Cytology or Biopsy – These procedures are done on severe cases of mange. Both require tissue samples prepared in a veterinary laboratory and examined by a pathologist.

 

A veterinarian can accurately determine the type of mange and will be able to create an effective treatment plan for your dog. 

 

Treatment Options for Mange in Dogs

 

Effectively treating mange would require eliminating the mites that caused it. Treatment of skin infections and improving the dog’s overall skin health would also be a factor in their recovery. 

In Dubai, veterinarians who specialize in Dermatology treat mange with a combination of medications and parasite management.

• Topical Treatment for Mange – Veterinarians may recommend topicals to help soothe irritated skin, treat and prevent secondary infections, and eliminate mites. These can be in the form of medicated shampoos or antiseptic creams.

 

• Oral Medications – For severe mite infestations, your vet may prescribe oral anti-parasitic medicine to target the mites. Antibiotics may also be given when your dog has already developed serious skin infections.

 

• Natural Cure for Mange – Some natural remedies can provide relief for mild cases of mange, such as coconut oil, aloe vera, and apple cider vinegar. However, these solutions should not replace veterinary treatment. It’s also advisable to consult your vet first before using these remedies, as they could cause more harm.

 

• Disinfecting Your Home – To manage scabies, it’s crucial that you disinfect your home, especially the areas where your dog usually stays, to prevent re-infestation. Remember to regularly wash your pet’s bedding, toys, and grooming tools.

 

• Specific Treatments for Demodex Mange – When it comes to treating Demodex mange, boosting your dog’s immune system and regular vet follow-ups are necessary for long-term management.

 

Preventing Mange in Dogs

Before your dog develops mange, it’s best to prevent it entirely to avoid discomfort in your pet. Preventing this skin disease is easier than treating it for weeks or months. Here are some ways to protect your dog against mange.

 

Routine vet visits can help detect underlying conditions of mange early. Many veterinary clinics, such as those in Dubai, where there is a high demand for pet medical care, are equipped with advanced tools to diagnose diseases accurately.

 

You may ask your vet about flea and tick preventatives, which can be topicals or oral medications that usually provide month-long protection against mites. Regular grooming and a healthy diet for your pet also help prevent mange.

 

Conclusion

Mange in dogs is a treatable condition, especially when diagnosed early. However, the recovery time is long, and your dog may experience discomfort for weeks.

 

By understanding the types, causes, symptoms, and treatments for mange, you can keep your canine companion healthy and comfortable–free from mites. Remember that prevention and routine vet consultations are the keys to managing mange in dogs.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is mange contagious to humans?

Yes, sarcoptic mange or scabies is contagious to humans. These mites can temporarily irritate human skin, which can lead to intense itching. However, Demodex mange and otodectic mange can’t be transmitted to humans. 

Can mange cause blindness in dogs?

Mange itself doesn’t cause blindness. However, severe infestations can lead to complications that can affect your dog’s vision.

Does mange go away on its own?

No, most cases of mange don’t go away without veterinary intervention. Some healthy dogs may be able to fight Demodex mange over time, but scabies and ear mites require treatments.

Is mange painful for dogs?

Mange can be painful for some dogs. Because of the intense itchiness, dogs would excessively scratch the affected area, which most often leads to wounds that cause pain and infections.