Mange in Dogs- What You Need to Know

Mange is primarily caused by two types of mites: Demodex canis (responsible for Demodectic mange) and Sarcoptes scabiei (responsible for Sarcoptic mange).

These mites can multiply in dogs with weakened immune systems, leading to various health issues.

Early stage mange in dogs is easier to treat and manage, as the symptoms are usually less severe and localized. Early detection allows for easier treatment, preventing the condition from becoming severe or chronic.

Prompt intervention not only helps alleviate your dog’s discomfort but also reduces the risk of the condition worsening. 

Understanding the different types of mange in dogs is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Demodectic Mange (Demodex)

Demodectic mange in dogs also called Red Mange in dogs or Demodex is one of the most common types of mange in dogs, and understanding its causes and symptoms is essential for effective treatment. Let's explore how this condition develops and the signs to watch for in affected dogs.

• Description and Causes: Caused by Demodex mites, this type of mange is usually localized but can become generalized in dogs with compromised immune systems.
• Symptoms and Affected Breeds: Common in young puppies and certain breeds like Bulldog and Poodle. Symptoms include patchy hair loss and redness.

Sarcoptic Mange (Scabies)

Sarcoptic mange, also known as scabies, is a highly contagious skin disease in dogs caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. Female mites burrow into the skin to lay their eggs, which hatch in about three weeks and feed on the host's skin. 

The mite is often found in areas frequented by infected dogs or foxes, which is why it is sometimes referred to as Fox Mange in dogs. To help prevent infection, it's important to keep your dog away from these high-risk areas.

• Contagious Nature and Causes: Highly contagious and caused by Sarcoptic mites. It can spread to other dogs and even humans.
• Symptoms and High-Risk Dogs: Extreme itchiness, redness, and thickened skin. Dogs with weakened immune systems are more susceptible such as  Chihuahua, Dachshund, and Labrador Retriever.

Other Rare Forms of Mange

• Notoedric Mange: Primarily affects cats but can occasionally occur in dogs.
• Cheyletiella Mange (Walking Dandruff): Causes flaky skin that looks like dandruff walking on your dog's coat.

Recognizing the signs of mange in dogs is crucial for early detection and treatment. It is important to note that puppies with mange will show the same symptoms as adult dogs and should be taken to a vet right away.

Visible Symptoms

• Hair Loss, Redness, and Crusty Skin: These are common in both Demodectic and Sarcoptic mange in which dogs lose their hair follicles.
• Intense Itching: Particularly severe in Sarcoptic mange, leading to excessive scratching and discomfort in dogs.

Behavioral Changes in Dogs with Mange

Dogs suffering from mange may become irritable, restless, or show signs of distress due to constant itching and discomfort. The skin irritation can lead to changes in behavior, such as anxiety, aggression, or difficulty eating and sleeping, making prompt treatment essential.

How Symptoms Vary by Type of Mange

Demodectic mange often presents with localized hair loss, typically in small patches around the face, ears, and legs, and is less likely to cause intense itching. 

In contrast, Sarcoptic mange is more widespread, affecting larger areas of the body, and causes severe itching, leading dogs to scratch or bite at their skin excessively

Understanding how dogs get mange and the risk factors involved can help in prevention and management.

Mite Infestations: How Dogs Acquire Mange

Mites can be transmitted through direct contact with an infected animal or contaminated environments. Sarcoptic mange is highly contagious, while Demodectic mange is usually not.

Weakened Immune Systems as a Risk Factor

Dogs with compromised immune systems, such as puppies, senior dogs, or those with underlying health conditions, are more susceptible to mange.

Environmental and Lifestyle Factors

Poor hygiene, overcrowded living conditions, and lack of regular grooming can increase the risk of mange infestations.

To accurately diagnose mange, a veterinarian will perform a thorough examination and use specific tests to identify the type of mite causing the condition.

Veterinary Examination: Visual Signs and History

During the veterinary examination, the vet will assess your dog’s skin and coat, looking for common signs of mange, such as hair loss, redness, or scabs. They will also ask about your dog’s symptoms, such as itching. 

The vet will inquire if your dog has been in contact with other animals that might have mange. This is particularly important if there are multiple pets in the household or if your dog has been in areas where mange is common.

Diagnostic Tests:

• Skin Scrapings: To confirm the presence of mites, the vet will perform a skin scraping by gently scraping the affected area of the skin. This sample is then placed on a slide and examined under a microscope to look for mites or eggs.
• Microscopic Examination: The microscopic examination helps not only to detect the mites but also to identify the specific type causing the mange, such as Demodex or Sarcoptes. Knowing the exact type of mange is crucial in determining the best treatment plan and ensuring effective recovery for your dog.

Effective treatment is vital to alleviate your dog's discomfort and eliminate the mite infestation.

Medical Treatments

• Prescription Medications: Oral or topical medications prescribed by a veterinarian can kill mites. Examples include ivermectin and selamectin.
• Antibiotics for Secondary Infections: If bacteria have infected the skin, antibiotics may be necessary.

Home Remedies

• When They Are Safe to Use: Home remedies can complement medical treatments but should not replace professional veterinary advice.
• Popular Remedies: Medicated baths with ingredients like sulfur or lime sulfur can help soothe the skin and reduce mites.

Duration and Cost of Treatments

The cost of mange in dogs treatment varies depending on the severity and type of mange. Medical treatments can range from affordable to expensive, while home remedies may offer a cost-effective alternative.

Understanding mange in dogs is crucial for proper care and treatment. Here’s a closer look at what you need to know.

Is Mange in Dogs Contagious?

Yes, mange is contagious, particularly Sarcoptic mange, which spreads through direct contact with infected dogs or contaminated areas. Isolating an infected dog is key to preventing the spread of the condition.

Can Mange in Dogs Affect Humans?

While mange in dogs to humans is uncommon, Sarcoptic mange can cause temporary itching and discomfort in people. Taking precautions to avoid contact with infected dogs is important to reduce the risk.

What Are Home Remedies for Treating Mange in Dogs?

If you’re wondering how to treat mange in dogs at home, options like medicated baths or sulfur-based treatments can help reduce itching and kill the mites. However, it’s best to consult a veterinarian before starting treatment at home.

What Medicines Are Used to Treat Mange in Dogs?

For severe cases, a veterinarian may prescribe mange in dogs medicine, such as ivermectin or milbemycin (oral medications), or selamectin (topical treatments), to target and eliminate the mites.

What Are the Costs of Treating Mange in Dogs?

The treatment cost varies based on the severity of the condition and the treatment required. While home remedies may be less expensive, professional veterinary care can be pricier, particularly if long-term treatment or multiple visits are needed. Early treatment can help lower costs.

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some strategies to prevent mange in dogs:

Regular Grooming and Bathing

Frequent grooming helps remove mites and reduces the risk of infestation. Regular baths with appropriate shampoos can keep your dog's skin healthy.

Maintaining a Clean Living Environment

Keeping your dog's living area clean minimizes the chances of mite infestations. Regularly washing bedding and cleaning surfaces can help.

Strengthening Your Dog’s Immune System

A healthy immune system can prevent mange infestations. Provide a balanced diet, regular exercise, and routine veterinary care to keep your dog’s immune system strong.

Certain age groups are more vulnerable to mange in dogs and require special care.

Why Certain Age Groups Are More Vulnerable

Puppies have developing immune systems, making them more susceptible to mange. Senior dogs may have weakened immunity due to age-related health issues.

Special Care Considerations for These Dogs

• Puppies: Ensure they are up-to-date with vaccinations and provide a stress-free environment.
• Senior Dogs: Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet can help maintain their immune health.

When to See a Veterinarian

Knowing when to seek professional help can prevent mange from worsening.

Warning Signs Requiring Urgent Care

• Severe itching and discomfort
• Extensive hair loss and skin lesions
• Signs of secondary infections like pus or excessive redness

Why Professional Diagnosis is Crucial

A veterinarian can accurately diagnose the type of mange and prescribe the most effective treatment, ensuring a quicker recovery for your dog.