Mange in Dogs (Mites)

A dog experiencing a yawn while exhibiting signs of skin mange, with visible patches of irritated and inflamed skin. Hilltop / Dog health Care / Skin: Mange

Understanding Parasitic Skin Disease in Dogs

Mange is a skin disease caused by microscopic mites that live on or within the skin. These parasites can cause itching, inflammation, and hair loss, and in some cases can lead to serious skin infections if left untreated.

Several types of mites can affect dogs, but the two most common forms of mange are sarcoptic mange and demodectic mange.

Although the symptoms may appear similar, these two conditions develop for different reasons and require different approaches to treatment.

Types of Mange in Dogs

Sarcoptic Mange (Scabies)

Sarcoptic mange is caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei. These mites burrow into the skin and cause severe itching and irritation.

Dogs with sarcoptic mange often show symptoms such as:

• intense scratching

• hair loss

• red or inflamed skin

• crusting or scabs on the skin

The ears, elbows, chest, and abdomen are commonly affected areas.

Sarcoptic mange is highly contagious between dogs, and in some cases can temporarily irritate human skin.

Demodectic Mange (Demodicosis)

Demodectic mange is caused by mites from the Demodex species. These mites normally live in small numbers in hair follicles and are usually harmless.

However, if a dog’s immune system is immature or weakened, the mites may multiply excessively and cause skin disease.

Demodectic mange often causes:

• patchy hair loss

• mild redness

• scaling of the skin

Unlike sarcoptic mange, demodectic mange is not contagious.

It is most commonly seen in young dogs or dogs with immune system problems.

Signs of Mange in Dogs

The symptoms of mange vary depending on the type of mite involved.

Common signs include:

• intense itching or scratching

• hair loss

• red or inflamed skin

• crusts or scabs on the skin

• thickened or darkened skin in chronic cases

Dogs with severe mange may also develop secondary bacterial skin infections, which can worsen itching and discomfort.

How Veterinarians Diagnose Mange

Diagnosing mange usually involves identifying the mites responsible for the skin disease.

Veterinarians may perform diagnostic tests such as:

• skin scrapings examined under a microscope

• hair or skin samples

• additional testing if infection is present

Because mites can sometimes be difficult to detect, veterinarians may also consider the dog’s history and clinical signs when making a diagnosis.

Treatment for Mange

Treatment depends on the type of mange and the severity of the infection.

Modern veterinary treatments for mange may include:

• oral parasite medications

• topical treatments

• medicated shampoos

• treatment for secondary skin infections

Most dogs respond well to treatment when the condition is diagnosed early.

Preventing Mange

Preventing parasite infestations is an important part of maintaining your dog’s skin health.

Preventive steps include:

• regular parasite prevention

• avoiding contact with infected animals

• routine veterinary checkups

Early treatment of skin problems can help prevent more serious infections from developing.

Mange Treatment in Kalamunda

If your dog is scratching excessively or developing patches of hair loss or irritated skin, mites may be one possible cause.

The team at Hilltop Veterinary Hospital in Kalamunda can examine your dog’s skin, perform diagnostic tests if needed, and recommend appropriate treatment.

Prompt diagnosis and treatment can help relieve discomfort and prevent further skin damage.

Concerned About Your Dog’s Skin?

If your dog is scratching constantly, losing hair, or showing signs of skin irritation, book a consultation with Hilltop Veterinary Hospital so our veterinary team can determine the cause and recommend the right treatment.

Explore More Pet Health Advice

For more veterinary advice on parasites, skin disease, and preventative care, explore our Pet Health Advice library.

You can also browse our Dog Health Care articles for more information on allergies, fleas, ear infections, and other common causes of itching in dogs.

The information provided in this article is intended for general educational purposes only and should not replace professional veterinary advice. Every dog’s health situation is unique. If your dog shows signs of itching, hair loss, or skin irritation, consult your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.