Understanding Fungal Skin Disorders in Dogs

Fungal skin disorders in dogs can be a real mystery to pet owners.

Malassezia is a common fungus that can cause skin issues in dogs, especially those with oily skin or ear infections.

Dogs with allergies or compromised immune systems are more prone to fungal skin disorders, such as ringworm.

Ringworm is highly contagious and can be spread through direct contact with an infected dog or contaminated objects.

Broaden your view: Dog Autoimmune Diseases

Fungal skin disorders in dogs can be caused by a variety of factors. Many bacteria and fungi live on the skin but are controlled by the immune system and do not cause issues under normal circumstances.

Immune deficiencies or an increase in the amount of oils produced on the skin are common causes of yeast infections. These infections are not contagious, but will often recur unless the underlying skin condition or allergy is addressed.

Some breeds may be genetically predisposed to yeast infections, including the Lhasa Apso, Poodle, Dachshund, Shetland Sheepdog, West Highland White Terrier, Maltese Terrier, Cocker Spaniel, Basset hound, Australian Terrier, Silky Terrier, and Chihuahua.

Older dogs are more susceptible to staph infections due to their weakened immune systems.

Curious to learn more? Check out: Boston Terrier Cherry Eye

Blastomycosis is a fungal infection that affects both animals and humans. It's caused by the fungus Blastomyces dermatitidis, which is commonly found in moist, acidic soil rich in decaying vegetation.

Blastomycosis is typically limited to specific geographic areas, including the Mississippi, Missouri, Tennessee, and Ohio River basins, as well as the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence Seaway. It also occurs in the Pacific Northwest.

The fungus exists in two forms: a mycelial form, which is contagious and found in the environment, and a yeast form, which is not contagious and found in tissues. The mycelial form can infect both animals and humans.

Young male dogs, especially hunting dogs, are at increased risk of getting blastomycosis due to their increased contact with contaminated soil. In dogs, blastomycosis most commonly affects the lungs, eyes, skin, and bones.

Symptoms of blastomycosis in animals include coughing, fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, and weight loss. Lung involvement can lead to exercise intolerance and difficulty breathing, while bone involvement can cause pain and lameness.

See what others are reading: How Long Is Kennel Cough Contagious on Surfaces

A veterinarian may suspect blastomycosis based on a dog's signs of illness, such as coughing or trouble breathing. Chest x-rays are often performed to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment of blastomycosis involves antifungal drugs given for an extended period, typically two months or more, until active disease is not apparent. The infection can recur in about 20% of treated dogs, but most dogs will again respond to treatment.

Suggestion: Lick Granuloma Treatment in Dogs

Oomycosis is a type of fungal infection caused by water molds, specifically oomycetes. These fungi are typically found in aquatic environments.

They can infect plants, animals, and even humans, causing a range of symptoms from mild to severe.

In humans, oomycosis can cause skin lesions, eye infections, and respiratory problems, especially in people with weakened immune systems.

The infection is often spread through contaminated water or contact with infected animals or plants.

In plants, oomycosis can cause root rot, leaf blight, and other diseases that can lead to significant crop losses.

Some common types of oomycosis include Phytophthora root rot and Pythium blight.

These infections can be challenging to treat and often require specialized care.

Prevention is key, and this can be achieved by avoiding contact with contaminated water and taking steps to maintain good hygiene.

Expand your knowledge: English Bulldog Wrinkle Infection

Yeast is a common cause of skin infections in dogs, and it's not contagious, but it can be quite uncomfortable for your furry friend.

Certain breeds are genetically predisposed to yeast infections, including the Lhasa Apso, Poodle, Dachshund, Shetland Sheepdog, West Highland White Terrier, Maltese Terrier, Cocker Spaniel, Basset hound, Australian Terrier, Silky Terrier, and Chihuahua.

Yeast infections occur when the skin's natural balance is disrupted, often due to allergies or an overproduction of oils. This can lead to skin crusting, itching, and a strong odor.

Malassezia pachydermatis is the fungus responsible for yeast dermatitis, a condition that causes skin inflammation and can result in thickened skin.

Common clinical signs of yeast dermatitis include itchiness or redness, a musty odor, hyperpigmentation, and thickened skin.

Treatment for yeast infections typically involves addressing the underlying cause, such as allergies or skin conditions, and may include antifungal medications or shampoos.

Here are some common symptoms of yeast infections in dogs:

Symptoms of fungal skin disorders in dogs can be quite varied and may include frequent scratching, biting at their skin, and irritation such as redness. You might also notice hair loss, flaky skin, texture changes, scabs, lumps, and an unusual or unpleasant smell.

A skin condition can be difficult to diagnose based on symptoms alone, so it's essential to consult a veterinarian if you notice any of these signs. They will perform a complete physical examination and may conduct additional tests to determine the underlying cause of the symptoms.

To diagnose fungal skin disorders, veterinarians may use various techniques, including impression smear, skin biopsy, skin scraping, acetate tape preparations, and cotton swab samples. These methods help identify the presence of fungi and determine the best course of treatment.

Here are some common symptoms of fungal skin disorders in dogs:

Your veterinarian will ask questions about your dog's medical history and when you first noticed the symptoms to help determine the best course of treatment. They may also perform additional tests, such as a complete blood count, biochemistry profile, and urinalysis, to rule out other potential causes of the symptoms.

Fungal skin disorders in dogs can be treated with oral or topical medications, or a combination of both, depending on the severity of the condition.

These medications are highly effective, but they must be given for a prolonged period, often several months.

Close monitoring with routine blood tests is necessary to check for potential side effects on the liver.

Because staph infections can be passed between dogs and from dog to humans, extra care should be taken when handling and treating your dog.

You should discuss any supplements or medications your dog is currently taking with your veterinarian to ensure the best treatment plan.

Consult with your veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and to reduce the risk of potential interactions between drugs.

Dogs can develop other fungal skin disorders beyond ringworm and yeast infections.

Malassezia is a type of fungus that can cause skin irritation in dogs.

Dogs with oily skin or ear infections are more prone to Malassezia.

This fungus thrives in warm, humid environments and can be found on the skin of healthy dogs.

However, in some cases, it can overgrow and cause problems.

Sporotrichosis is another fungal infection that can affect dogs, typically through skin contact with contaminated soil or plants.

Symptoms include skin lesions, redness, and swelling.

This infection can be treated with antifungal medications and antibiotics.

Aspergillosis is a rare but serious fungal infection that can affect dogs, especially those with weakened immune systems.

It can cause respiratory problems, skin lesions, and eye infections.

Treatment typically involves antifungal medications and supportive care.

Related reading: Shih Tzu Fungal Skin Infection Treatment