Skin Problems In German Shepherds And What You Can Use To Help Relieve Them
The good news is, most skin problems can be quickly managed when caught early. Removing the trigger and treating the problem can go a long way to preventing recurring problems. Some of the more common skin issues and solutions include:
Inflamed Skin
If your dog has gotten into something that made him itchy or is just having a minor skin flare-up, a Chlorhexidine Shampoo can help restore skin condition, wash away bacteria, and reduce a wide range of microorganisms. It's safe to use for routine shampoos and will even soothe allergies and promote healing.
Symptoms of inflamed skin include redness, itchiness, licking, and general discomfort.
Bacterial Infections
Bacterial infections can mimic other skin conditions but the symptoms of an infection may include redness, crustiness, drainage, pyoderma (pus), lesions, pain, warmth, and hair loss. Minor and superficial skin infections may respond to treatment at home but wounds, drainage, abbesses, large infected areas, or any skin issue or wound with accompanied foul odor should be seen by a vet.
A Ph balanced shampoo containing Miconazole Nitrate and Chlorhexidine Gluconate can be used to help improve the condition of the skin and wash away superficial bacteria. In the case of bacterial infections, it can also help soothe the skin and help your dog feel more comfortable. However, your pet may have a bacterial infection under the skin which will require an antibiotic to cure and to prevent it from getting worse.
Fungal/Yeast
Small amounts of yeast or fungi on the skin are normal but when they begin to multiply, they can be a sign of allergies or illness and cause your dog a lot of discomforts. The good news is, shampoo containing Miconazole and soothing oatmeal can help relieve the symptoms of a yeast infection and make your dog less itchy and more comfortable.
The symptoms of a yeast infection may include itching, redness, gray skin, change in skin texture, greasiness, musty smell, warmth, swelling, dandruff, and pain.
Ringworm
Ringworm is not a worm or parasite but rather a highly contagious fungus that can live on the skin and nails of dogs and in the environment. Unlike other fungal infections, ringworm doesn't typically itch but it can easily spread over the body and be transferred between dogs, cats, and their owners. For that reason, if your dog has ringworm you'll need to see a vet but you can help relieve the symptoms of ringworm with Miconazole shampoo.
The symptoms of ringwork include red circular rings on the skin, circular areas of hair loss, dry, brittle nails, and scabby skin.
Dermatitis
Dermatitis is an itchy skin condition that can be the result of environmental allergies, pollen, flea bites, dust mites, or food sensitivities. It can be seasonal, a one-time triggered event, or chronic. It's very itchy and uncomfortable for dogs. A soothing shampoo containing melaleuca, rosemary, and coconut oil can help relieve symptoms.
The symptoms of dermatitis include intense itching, scratching, chewing, hot spots, hair loss, redness, raised skin, flatulence, and stomach upset.
Seborrhea
Seborrhea is a form of dermatitis that affects the underlying sebaceous glands of the skin. It causes an excessive amount of sebum causing scaly, flaky, itchy, and red skin. It is usually found along the back of a dog and is accompanied by dandruff. A shampoo containing Sulfur and Salicylic Acid may help relieve symptoms.
There are two types of seborrhea, seborrhea sicca (dry seborrhea), and seborrhea oleosa (oily seborrhea). A vet will have to run tests to diagnose which one your dog suffers from. Seborrhea can be caused by medical problems, such as Cushing's disease, thyroid disease, hormone imbalances and more so dogs with these symptoms should see a vet to rule out an underlying health problem.
Canine Acne
Canine acne is an inflammatory disorder of the lips and muzzle, which causes pustules or pimples on the skin. Untreated, the pimples can cause infection and scarring. It can be caused by trauma to the skin or even broken fur. A Benzoyl Peroxide shampoo and crème rinse can help open and flush the hair follicles and improve symptoms.
Folliculitis
Folliculitis is another condition that affects the hair follicles of dogs. It can cause swelling, redness, itching, pustules, pimples, and hair loss. It is one of the most common infections in dogs and is basically an infection of the hair follicles. Dogs with folliculitis should see their vet but a Benzoyl Peroxide shampoo and cream rinse can help with mild cases.
It's important to note that the German shepherd breed is known to get a type of idiopathic furunculosis, which is a serious medical problem that can cause deep ulcerations, folliculitis, and furunculosis, which requires urgent medical care.
Demodectic Mange
Demodectic mange is caused by a mite that lives on the hair follicles of nearly all dogs. It is the most common mange. The mites for demodectic mange transferred from the mother to puppies during their first few days of life.
Puppies most commonly get this type of mange, but adult dogs can also be affected. Severe cases are most seen in dogs suffering from neglect, health problems, or immune system disorders. Healthy dogs over 18 months old don't normally develop Demodectic mange.
The symptoms of Demodectic mange include hair loss and red, scaling skin. Dog with mange should see their vet but can also benefit from a shampoo and conditioner containing Benzoyl Peroxide.
Itchy, Dry Skin
Just like people, dogs can suffer from Itchy, dry skin. It can be caused by many things including allergies, heating, air conditioning, illness, flea or bug bites, diet, swimming, and much more. Dogs with serious and chronic dry skin should see their vet but for most problems, a soothing oatmeal, moisture restoring shampoo and conditioner will help soothe the itch so that your dog is more comfortable.
We hope you enjoyed this article and find the perfect shampoo and condition for your dog.
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