Dandruff treatment dogs: Dandruff in Dogs | PetMD

Dandruff in Dogs | PetMD

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If you’ve noticed white flakes in your dog’s fur, you might be wondering if they have dandruff  or whether dogs even get dandruff. Yes, they can. Dandruff, or seborrheic dermatitis, is common in dogs and humans alike.

Dandruff is not typically a sign of a serious condition, but you can talk with a veterinarian to find out what may be causing it. Make an appointment sooner rather than later if you see symptoms like extreme itchiness or a change in weight or behavior.

Here’s what you need to know about the types of dog dandruff, what to look for, any possible causes, and best treatment options.

Types of Dandruff in Dogs

Not all dandruff in dogs looks like white flakes. It can be either dry or oily, or it may not even be true dandruff. The underlying skin may or may not be red or patchy from hair loss. Here are the most common types:

• Seborrhea sicca (dry seborrhea): This dry dandruff may appear as white flakes with crusty skin.

• Seborrhea oleosa (oily seborrhea): Your dog’s skin may have an oily feel and give off an odor.

• Walking dandruff: If the dandruff seems like it’s moving, this is called Cheyletiella and is actually a type of mite.

What Causes Dog Dandruff?

Dandruff in dogs can be caused by several factors, including:

• Allergies

• A vitamin deficiency (such as a lack of omega fatty acids)

• Hormone imbalance

• Immune-related issues

• Genetic condition (more commonly seen in American Cocker Spaniels, West Highland White Terriers, English Springer Spaniels, and Basset Hounds)

• Low humidity that strips the skin of moisture and dries it out

• Health conditions, including hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid glands), autoimmune conditions (pemphigus), and diabetes mellitus

• Cheyletiellosis, or “walking dandruff,” is caused by white mites that can be seen with the naked eye. The mites lay their eggs in the dog’s fur and cause extreme itchiness.

• Bacterial and fungal skin infections

Diagnosing Dandruff in Dogs

To diagnose the underlying cause of dandruff, a veterinarian may:

• Perform a physical examination

• Ask how long the dandruff has been occurring, whether your dog has been scratching (or showing other habits that indicate discomfort), and what your dog’s diet/water intake is

• Take skin samples (skin scraping) and material from your dog’s hair to check for mites or lice

• Suggest allergy tests, such as a food elimination diet or an intradermal skin test, if an allergen is suspected

• Examine skin cells and debris from your dog’s ears for yeast or bacterial infection

• Do a tissue biopsy to test for cancer

• Do blood tests to screen for:

  
  

Home Remedies and Treatments for Dog Dandruff

In simple cases, dandruff may be prevented with good nutrition and regular grooming. Some veterinarians may suggest adding omega-6 fatty acids to the diet, but always check with your veterinarian before changing your dog’s diet.

Be sure to talk with your vet for at-home remedies that fit your dog’s situation. Never use anti-dandruff products for humans; these products can be harmful to dogs.

Other treatment recommendations may include:

• Bathing your dog regularly, using an oatmeal-based dog shampoo or soothing shampoos such as Virbac Epi-Soothe. Persistent dandruff may require a prescription shampoo to calm itchy, aggravated skin.

• Frequent brushing is important to massage the skin and help spread a dog’s natural oils over their body. Using the right brush is also important (one with the right firmness for your dog). Depending on your dog’s coat, you may try FURminator de-shedding tools for different coat lengths, or products like de-matting brushes and shine/condition soft-bristle brushes.

• Mites (cheyletiellosis) require extensive treatment because they can live up to 10 days on everyday objects.

  
  

  • All pets with mites should be bathed 6 to 8 times a week. A vet may prescribe rinses containing insecticide and lime sulfur, along with oral medication.

  • Bedding, kennels, and rugs can be cleaned to prevent reinfestation.

Dandruff in Dogs FAQs

Why does my dog have dandruff?

Dandruff can occur in dogs as a result of dry, flaky skin; as a reaction to an allergen; or as the result of a mite infestation.

Should I be worried if my dog has dandruff?

Dandruff is usually not a cause for concern unless there are other signs, such as constant scratching or symptoms that may suggest a more serious underlying condition, like diabetes or Cushing’s disease.

Featured Image: iStock.com/Natee127

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What Causes Dog Dandruff (and How Do You Get Rid of It)?
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From an itchy scalp to the tell-tale white flakes on your shoulders, dandruff is not only embarrassing, but it’s also uncomfortable. Luckily, you can run to the drugstore for dandruff shampoo and stop the flakes pronto. 

But what about your dog? Dandruff can affect your furry friend, too. While you can’t share your anti-dandruff shampoo with your pup, there are options to make the flakes from dog dandruff disappear.

In this guide, we’ll explore the causes and symptoms of dog dandruff and what you can do to ensure your beloved pet is free from this bothersome and itchy condition.

Common Causes of Dog Dandruff

Dandruff — officially known as seborrhea — rarely strikes alone. As such, dandruff is usually the side effect of another condition. Primary seborrhea (dandruff without an underlying health condition) is an inherited condition, but it’s very rare. 

On the other hand, secondary seborrhea is much more common. This type of dandruff is frequently caused by:

• Allergies, including food allergies
• Infestations of cheyletiella mites
• Internal parasites
• Bacterial infections
• Yeast infections
• Fungal infections, including ringworm
• Hypothyroidism
• Cushing’s disease
• Obesity 
• Environmental factors, especially humidity or aridity

Because dog dandruff is often connected to other medical issues (such as allergies), it’s a good idea to make an appointment with your vet to rule out any underlying condition.

Along with being an excellent way to promote healthy skin, omega-3 fatty acids offer multiple benefits for your dog, such as helping with seasonal allergies and joint discomfort, promoting heart health, and aiding cognitive function. Omega-3 acids also help to reduce the negative impact of omega-6 fats, which are found in many processed foods (both for humans and dogs).

How to Know If Your Pet Might Have Dog Dandruff

An occasional flake of dry skin isn’t uncommon for dogs (or humans). While dry skin often leads to flaking, it’s important to recognize if the flaking happens more than once in a while.

Common symptoms of dog dandruff include:

• Visible flakes of dry skin throughout your dog’s coat
• Increased itchy sensations (and more scratching)
• Red skin 
• Scabs (from scratching too much)
• Signs of discomfort 

Note: Seborrhea can create secondary skin infections. This is another good reason to check in with your vet if you notice your dog has increased itchiness and dandruff flakes.

Does Breed Matter When It Comes to Dog Dandruff?

Just as some humans are more prone to dry skin, some dog breeds are more prone to dandruff. 

For example, ichthyosis is a condition that causes rough skin and greasy flakes to develop. According to the Foundation for Ichthyosis & Related Skin Types, the following breeds are more at risk for this condition:

• West Highland White Terrier
• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
• Doberman Pinscher
• Jack Russell Terrier
• Norfolk Terrier
• Yorkshire Terrier 

Breeds that are at risk for allergies are also more likely to develop dandruff associated with allergies, including poodles, Maltese, terriers, and greyhounds.

Treating Dog Dandruff

The first step in treating dog dandruff is pinpointing the underlying cause of your dog’s skin and coat issues. Once you determine the root of the problem, you can implement the proper treatment. Keep in mind that an allergy test would be the most reliable way to determine if specific allergens are affecting your dog and leading to dandruff.

You can promote healthy skin and fur with the following steps:

• Brush your dog regularly: Regular brushing helps to loosen (and remove) loose fur and dead skin flakes. Regular brushing also helps prevent mats. 
• Use gentle, moisturizing shampoos: When bathing your dog, choose dog shampoos formulated for dry skin, such as oatmeal shampoos. You can also find medicated shampoos that specifically target doggy dandruff.
• Rinse your dog well: Dried-on shampoo can leave your dog’s skin itchy. Many pet parents try home remedies like rinsing with apple cider vinegar after shampooing as a way to remove soapy residue and promote healthy skin pH levels.
• Run a humidifier: If low humidity is causing dry skin, a humidifier can add moisture back into the air.
• Include omega-3 fatty acids in your dog’s diet: Omega-3 fatty acids promote healthy skin and hair in humans, and they also offer those same benefits to dogs. You can find essential fatty acids in many dog foods and treats. 

It’s worth noting that you may also need to administer medications or creams prescribed by the vet if your dog has a skin infection or other condition like hypothyroidism.

Supplements for Dog Dandruff 

Along with consulting your vet and implementing some of the ideas mentioned above, you may want to consider adding a skin and coat supplement to your dog’s daily routine.

However, keep in mind that not all supplements are created equal. You’ll need to keep the following factors in mind when shopping for supplements for your pet.

Look for Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are the “good” fats that promote healthy hair and skin. But just like humans, dogs can’t create these omegas on their own — these essential fatty acids must be obtained through diet. 

Along with being an excellent way to promote healthy skin, omega-3 fatty acids offer multiple benefits for your dog, such as reducing allergies and arthritis pain, promoting heart health, and boosting cognitive function. Omega-3 acids also help to reduce the negative impact of omega-6 fats, which are found in many processed foods (both for humans and dogs).

When looking for omega-3 fatty acids, be aware that they come from many sources, including fish, kelp, coconut oil, and flaxseed oil. These beneficial fatty acids can be just one ingredient in a supplement or they can serve as a standalone supplement.

Pay Attention to All the Ingredients 

There are a lot of supplements on the market, and a quick look at the ingredient label can help you determine a high-quality supplement from a not-so-great one. 

Opt for supplements that contain:

• Fish oil (there’s that omega-3, again) from salmon or smaller fish such as sardines, which contain less mercury
• Probiotics to support healthy immune function and digestive health from the inside out
• Kelp, a natural source of iodine
• Flaxseed oil, a plant-based source of omega-3 fatty acids
• Vitamin E, a natural alternative to chemical preservatives that can maintain freshness

Avoid supplements that contain:

• Artificial flavors, preservatives, or dyes
• Genetically modified organisms (GMOs)
• Fillers such as wheat or corn
• Gumming or thickening agents
• Excessive amounts of sugar or salt
• Synthetic preservatives

For a natural supplement made from real-food ingredients, you may want to try one of PetHonesty’s skin and coat soft chews. Whether you choose allergy relief, omega salmon, or the multivitamin, these high-quality supplements provide a tasty treat for your pet using only natural, functional ingredients that can be part of a healthy lifestyle.

It’s Possible to Help Your Dog Stay Flake-Free

Even if your dog isn’t actively dealing with dandruff, it’s essential to promote healthy skin and fur. From regularly brushing your dog’s coat to feeding her a diet that includes omega-3 fatty acids, you can take steps to prevent dog dandruff. 

However, if you notice that your dog’s dandruff or itching is suddenly getting worse, consult your vet to determine if your pup has an allergy or could benefit from other treatments or medications. We know pet health is your top priority. Be sure to visit the PetHonesty blog for more tips to enhance your dog’s overall well-being.

Best tips to heal, treat and get rid of dog dandruff at home naturally

Most of us would agree that dandruff on dogs definitely presents one of the ugliest conditions to see on a dog’s skin. Although it seems easy to solve in people, with dogs, it goes a bit different. Itchy, flaky and dry scalp can’t be treated only by using a bottle of anti-dandruff dog shampoo because in some cases, there can be an underlying cause.

What is dog dandruff?

Dog dandruff is a condition where you can see a dog’s dead skin cells covering his coat. For a dog, having dandruff goes together with itching and excessive scratching that can only worsen the problems. When a dog scratches the skin, it can cause cuts and rashes that may end up by developing an infection.

Therefore, treating dandruff in dogs is highly important. One of the first things every dog owner needs to do is to determine the type of seborrhea that caused dandruff.

The first type of seborrhea is triggered by a dog’s genetics, while the second type can be caused by food or environmental allergy, obesity, etc.

What are the most common symptoms of dog dandruff?

1. If you started to notice a lot of flakes on your dog’s skin, it’s definitely the time to take him to see a vet. It’s not advisable to choose a shampoo on your own because there are different types of dog’s dandruff too. There is dandruff followed by oily and dry skin, and depending on the condition of the scalp your pooch might need specially tailored remedy.
2. Another unavoidable symptom is a dog’s itchiness. A dog that experiences itchy scalp can cause severe skin irritations that become the perfect place for bacteria to grow.
3. Developing pimples, scabs, and pumps due to a dog’s scratching.
4. Bad odor due to an infection or oily skin
5. Redness
6. Hair loss in patches due to constant scratching

 “Skin healing oil is a blend of natural, nourishing, healing and moisturizing ingredients which are carefully selected for optimal benefits in case of dog dandruff problems. ”

What are the main causes of dandruff on dogs?

Before you start to treat dandruff on dogs, it’s very important to discover an underlying cause. In some cases, a dog’s inappropriate nutrition and choosing food rich in artificial colors and preservatives can induce a dog’s itchiness. That’s why is recommended to carefully tailor your dog’s diet and choose only natural ingredients.

1. Another important factor may present a dog’s obesity especially in case you own a dog breed with a large number of skin folds. Skin folds are moist and dark places that improve the development of yeast and other fungi.
2. Different types of parasites
3. Frequent bathing can cause dry skin on dogs that is usually the most common dandruff trigger.
4. The level of humidity in the environment
5. Genetics- Some dog breeds are naturally predisposed to suffer from dandruff such as Labrador and Golden retriever, American bulldog, and German Shepherd.

How to heal / treat dandruff on dogs?

Depending on your dog’s level of severity, your four-legged friend might require an anti-dandruff shampoo for oily or dry scalp.

1. In case when dandruff has been induced by a yeast infection, your vet might prescribe you a topical cream and a shampoo rich in selenium sulfide or benzoyl peroxide. Anti-fungal shampoo should also contain chlorhexidine, miconazole, or ketoconazole. 
2. Regular grooming with an adequate brush is also highly important since in that way you’ll remove all the dead cells left on your pet’s coat. Brushing also keeps a dog’s hair smooth and shiny and prevents from developing dandruff. In case your dog is obese, we advise you to buy a grooming glove that is great for hard-to-reach places. 
3. Regular bathing (not too frequent) helps in removing dead skin cells from everyone’s skin. By choosing a sensitive skin and anti-dandruff shampoo for your pooch will much improve a skin condition. It’s also not recommended to use an anti-dandruff shampoo as your dog’s main bathing product. It should be used only during the treatment period.
4. Consider adding supplements rich in Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids to your pet’s diet. They help in improving the skin’s elasticity and hydration.
5. Add fruits rich in antioxidants such as blueberries and raspberries into your dog’s diet. You can use them as tasty snacks between meals. Antioxidants promote the youth of the skin and keep it fresh and smooth.
6. Consider buying a humidifier that will help your pooch in dealing with dry air in winter that makes his skin dry, itchy and flaky.

What are the best natural remedies for dog dandruff?

Natural remedies are famous for a number of beneficial effects they leave on a dog’s skin and hair. Ingredients such as Coconut and Olive oils are great for keeping a dog’s skin hydrated and shiny. They are famous for their calming and anti-inflammation effects.

1. Besides you can add it to your dog’s nutrition (consider putting a teaspoon of Olive or Coconut oil in your dog’s meal), you can massage his coat before bathing. In that way, you’ll hydrate each pore on his skin and ‘feed’ them with medium chain triglycerides. One of the most important ingredients that Coconut is famous for is Lauric Acid that has been found in mother’s milk. Lauric Acid is famous for its antibacterial properties that also help in building a strong immune system. Besides previously mentioned facts, it’s also great for healing wounds, cuts, pimples, dry skin, blisters, allergy, eczema, and many other inflammations.
2. Another secret weapon that can help you in fighting against dog dandruff is the Olive oil mixed with apple cider vinegar and water. It’s recommended to mix 60 % water with 40% Apple cider vinegar and to add 3-4 spoons of olive oil.  This magical mix should be used for spraying your dog’s coat. After you applied the solution on his coat, it’s advisable to wait for an hour and then to wash him with anti-dandruff shampoo. The apple cider vinegar provenly helps in stimulating the shedding of dead skin cells on the scalp. it also reduces the growth of fungus.
3. Besides previously mentioned ingredients, baking soda is famous for its antifungal properties and releasing dandruff in dogs. You can mix baking soda with water, sprinkle your dog’s fur, and then comb it with a hard brush for removing dead flakes. We also advise you to wash your dog’s hair with a shampoo after the treatment is done.
4. Tea Tree oil is proven to have powerful anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties. In dogs, it can fight yeast, and other fungus, pimples, seborrheic dermatitis, and dandruff.
5. For treating your dog’s itchy and dry skin followed by dandruff, it’s also good to use Aloe Vera juice. This magical plant will prevent your pooch from itching the skin by making a cooling effect.

Treating your dog’s dandruff doesn’t need to present an unbearable problem. By consulting your vet for advice and finding an underlying cause, dandruff can be treated successfully. It only depends on your patience will for helping your dog’s itchy issue.

Causes of dandruff in cats and dogs

Published: 05/04/2018 Reading time: 8 min. 38663

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Dandruff in cats and dogs is a process of excessive death of the epidermis, manifested in the formation of untidy white grains and flakes on the coat and in the undercoat of the animal. In a healthy pet, this process also occurs, but within the normal range and visually almost indistinguishable.

Causes of dandruff in dogs

If we do not take into account serious diseases (infectious and non-infectious), in which dandruff may occur, then experts identify 4 main reasons:

• unbalanced diet;
• allergy to food components;
• dryness or excessive greasiness of the skin;
• use of unsuitable pet skin and coat care products.

Unbalanced diet , which does not contain the right substances, directly affects the appearance of the animal. The coat becomes dull, the death of epidermal cells may increase. Feeding your pet with food from the table is also capable of provoking the appearance of dandruff. Even a small amount of spicy, fatty, smoked, sweet, starchy foods can disrupt metabolism, which will not be easy to restore.

Food allergy is the most common cause of dandruff in dogs. Foods that can cause it include:

• chicken,
• wheat and oats in various forms,
• sweets,
• soy,
• different types of fish,
• yolk,
• some vitamin complexes with a high content of B vitamins,
• low grade dry food and treats.

Sensitivity to food allergens is not inherent in all animals. Before changing the diet or transferring the dog to a hypoallergenic food, it is necessary to consult with a veterinarian. Independent experiments on the selection of safe food often end in an increase in allergies in a dog. You can buy medicated feed in specialized pet stores, where there is a veterinary department.

Dryness or excessive greasiness of the skin. Dog skin has a thin layer of sebum that acts as a natural barrier. With its thinning, dry skin occurs and dandruff may appear.

For walks in bad weather, it is better to put on special overalls for the dog and then wash the paws with warm water and paw shampoo intended for frequent use. Regular brushing of the dog also helps to remove excess dirt from the coat.

Dogs can have oily seborrhea with dandruff. An excess of sebum is released on the skin of the animal, which causes an unpleasant odor. The dog is itchy and scratches the lesions: armpits, ears, elbows, lower abdomen, paws. This can lead to scabs, abrasions, hair loss and skin damage, which can lead to secondary infection.

Another common cause of dandruff is improperly selected hair care products . Remember: don’t bathe your dog with human shampoos! We have different skin pH levels. Some of the cosmetic additives can provoke not only the appearance of dandruff, but also much more negative consequences. Choose “dog” shampoos that match your pet’s coat type. And be sure to rinse your shampoo thoroughly.

Causes of dandruff in cats

The causes of dandruff may lie in the presence of infectious and non-infectious diseases in the animal: metabolic disorders, hormonal dysfunction, fungal infections, parasites. Cats can also have seborrhea. In addition to dry seborrhea (dry dandruff), domestic cats are prone to skin diseases in which the sebaceous glands produce a secret too intensively. Outwardly, this manifests itself as oily skin, sometimes covered with scales of the epidermis. Changes are especially noticeable in animals with dark hair, on the muzzle and croup of the pet. In cats, a mixed form of seborrhea is also possible. In cats, oily skin and dandruff are often noted in the sacrum and at the base of the tail. Here are the glands that can produce a secret too intensively.

The most common causes of dandruff in cats include:

• Dry air in the apartment, insufficient humidity. For example, heaters dry out the air. If there is a lack of moisture in the air in the house, the skin of the animal becomes rougher and denser, seborrhea may develop.

• Allergic reactions . Skin irritation and dandruff are caused by hypersensitivity to household chemicals or dietary components. Plant pollen, dust, some veterinary drugs can also cause allergies. To clarify the plan of action, you must contact your veterinarian.
• Overweight . Due to their sluggishness, obese cats find it difficult to groom their own hair, especially on the back. In this case, you need to correct the diet and lifestyle of the pet.
• Malnutrition . This includes not only a poor diet with a deficiency of vitamins A and B, minerals, omega-3 fatty acids and other useful elements, but also an abundance of improper food with an increased amount of carbohydrates. In addition, introducing a new food to the menu can provoke dandruff. The veterinarian will help you adjust your pet’s diet and recommend specialized food, which you can buy in the veterinary departments of pet stores. Also make sure that the animal always has fresh clean water in a bowl.
• Lack of pet care . Combing is an important daily hygiene procedure. Soft massage movements improve blood circulation, renew the skin epidermis, and hair growth. To keep the coat clean, the cat should be bathed with an appropriate shampoo followed by a thorough rinse of the coat.

What to do if you find dandruff in your pet

If you have ruled out the above reasons (inappropriate pet skin and coat care products, dry air in the apartment, etc. ), but dandruff still remains, contact your veterinarian. After the examination, he will prescribe the necessary tests, make or correct the diagnosis and select the drugs. Self-diagnosis and self-treatment of the animal should not be engaged in, so as not to worsen the condition of the pet.

Antidandruff products

The range of AVZ includes several tools:

• zoo shampoo “Forest” is produced separately for cats and dogs, contains natural medicinal extracts of birch, nettle, string;
• zoo shampoo “ Gentle” for cats and kittens, as well as dogs and puppies contains aloe vera, provitamin B ₅ and allantoin. Suitable for frequent use;
• Elite Professional shampoo series includes professional cosmetic products for dogs and cats: moisturizing, hypoallergenic, deep cleansing shampoos, balms, sprays and more;
• Animal Sulfur Powder serves as a food supplement that helps to normalize metabolism, improve the condition of the skin and coat of pets. Consult your veterinarian before introducing it into your diet.

Shampoos are applied in a small amount to wet wool, lather and rinse thoroughly with clean water. Before using cosmetics and hygiene products and nutritional supplements, carefully read the instructions.

Author: AVZ

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Seborrheic dermatitis in dogs: Symptoms and treatment

Contents

• Seborrhea and seborrheic dermatitis in dogs
• Etiological causes of seborrhea
• Symptoms and clinical picture
• Seborrhea and seborrheic dermatitis in dogs: Treatment
• Differential (exclusionary) diagnoses

A healthy dog ​​should have a soft and pleasant coat. Changes in its structure quickly become noticeable. The appearance of dandruff, excessive oiliness of the skin and hair makes the owners think that their pet may be sick. Such manifestations may be characteristic of seborrhea, in addition, against this background, an inflammatory process may develop. Owners who are puzzled by the quality of their pet’s coat can self-diagnose and self-treat at home by searching for available information on the Internet, for example, by searching for “seborrheic dermatitis in dogs photo”, “seborrheic dermatitis in dogs treatment photo” and so on. It should be noted that a clinical picture similar to seborrheic dermatitis can be observed in a number of other diseases that have a fundamentally different approach to treatment. At the same time, seborrhea can be one of the consequences of a systemic disease of the internal organs, being one of the most noticeable clinical signs to the owner.

Seborrhea and seborrheic dermatitis in dogs

In dogs, seborrhea is a chronic skin disease characterized by disruption of the normal keratinization process (keratinization defect), manifested by excessive scaling or excessive oiliness of the skin and coat, and sometimes by secondary inflammation. Depending on the specific location on the body involved in the process, some patients may have dry and oily skin at the same time.

The manifestation of the dry form of seborrhea in a Golden Retriever. On the coat there is a large number of grayish scales, poorly exfoliated from the skin. (Photo courtesy of O. V. Royeva, dermatologist at the Biocontrol Veterinary Clinic).

The terms seborrhea sicca, seborrhea oleosa and seborrheic dermatitis have taken root in veterinary medicine. Seborrhea sicca indicates dryness of the skin and coat, there is focal or diffuse peeling with the appearance of non-stick whitish or grayish scales, while the coat may be dull and dry. The oily form of seborrhea (Seborrhea oleosa) , on the contrary, is characterized by oily hair and skin, and an excess amount of sebaceous secretion feels good to the touch and has an unpleasant odor, strongly pronounced in the severe form of this disease.

Etiological causes of seborrhea

Distinguish between primary and secondary seborrhea, and they proceed with similar clinical symptoms. Primary seborrhea is a hereditary disease and is manifested by a violation of the keratinization of the skin. It is most common in American Cocker Spaniels, English Springer Spaniels, West Highland White Terriers, and Basset Hounds, but Irish Setters, Dobermans, Shar Pei, Dachshunds, Labrador Retrievers, and German Shepherds also have an increased risk of developing it. . Primary seborrhea is detected at an early age, diagnosed with a skin biopsy. With this form of the disease, it is also important to exclude the causes leading to secondary seborrhea.

Secondary seborrhea can be caused by external or internal factors, which leads to a violation of the normal desquamation of the surface epithelial cells of the skin. Almost any skin disease during its acute or convalescent phase can lead to the development of seborrhea. In general, the mechanisms by which the normal process of skin keratinization is disrupted are not completely clear.

Skin inflammation, certain endocrine diseases (hyperadrenocortisism, hypothyroidism), nutritional deficiencies (unbalanced diet, indigestion and malabsorption) and environmental factors (excessive bathing, low air humidity) are thought to contribute to the development of secondary seborrhea. Diagnosis of seborrhea is simple and based on a characteristic clinical picture, it is much more difficult to determine the cause of its development. The diagnostic approach varies from case to case. The veterinarian, in addition to collecting the obligatory anamnesis (medical history), performs a diet analysis, microscopy of skin scrapings and a trichogram (examination of the condition of the hair), excludes intestinal parasites and signs of indigestion and absorption in the intestine. When lesions are seen over most of the skin surface (generalized seborrhea), a skin biopsy is usually not required.

Symptoms and clinical picture

Clinical signs of primary seborrhea may vary among patients. Common manifestations are a dull coat with excessive flaking of the skin, oily skin with an unpleasant odor, itchy patches with peeling of the skin (manifestation of seborrheic dermatitis), and a special form of inflammation of the external auditory canal (hyperplastic ceruminous otitis media). Clinical signs are especially pronounced around the eyes and mouth, on the auricle, armpits or in the groin area.

Secondary seborrhea is manifested by peeling and increased oiliness of the skin, inflammation of the external auditory canal (ceruminous otitis media) can also be observed. The severity of clinical symptoms depends on the primary cause, the disease proceeds individually for each patient. In general, systemic signs (endocrine disorders, nutritional deficiencies, bowel or liver disease) lead to a generalized form (when lesions occur over most of the body surface) that is initially nonpruritic. Itching develops when seborrhea is complicated by a bacterial and / or fungal infection.

Seborrheic dermatitis in dogs is a complication of seborrhea. The skin has peeling, greasy appearance with signs of local or generalized inflammation. As with oily seborrhea, seborrheic dermatitis has a high risk of active proliferation of bacteria or fungi ( Malassezia or Candida spp. ) on the skin. The vital activity of fungal microorganisms further exacerbates the already increased oiliness of the skin. In addition, Malassezia fungi increase the rate of skin cell division, creating a vicious circle. That is, increased fat content and peeling of the skin are favorable conditions for the reproduction of fungi, and Malassezia fungi, in turn, increase the production of sebaceous secretion, aggravating the course of seborrheic dermatitis. This should not be forgotten, since even in advanced cases, the manifestations of seborrhea can be eliminated, however, clinical signs can only disappear when an effective antifungal treatment is prescribed.

The classic localized form of canine seborrheic dermatitis is characterized by round, hairless plaques with redness and scaling, and later with the development of hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin). This form must be distinguished from other diseases, such as pyoderma (purulent skin lesions) or dermatophytosis (lichen), in which very similar lesions appear on the skin. In addition, in the early stages of the development of a generalized form of demodicosis (a parasitic disease), the skin in dogs can be either greasy or have peeling.

Seborrhea and seborrheic dermatitis in dogs: Treatment

Primary seborrhea cannot be cured, treatment is symptomatic, aimed at eliminating the manifestations of the disease. The main goal of treating secondary seborrhea is to find and eliminate the cause that caused it, in which case, with proper diagnosis, the clinical signs of the disease should disappear spontaneously in 30-60 days, in severe cases, recovery takes a longer period of time (3-4 months). Since seborrheic dogs are prone to secondary staph and fungal infections, antibiotic and antifungal treatment may be required. Eliminating secondary infections along with the underlying cause of seborrhea can lead to a very rapid improvement in skin symptoms.

For the treatment of primary and secondary seborrhea, topical therapy can be used, in long-haired dog breeds it is recommended to trim the coat before applying it. Dogs are bathed using special shampoos twice a week for 1-2 weeks. Patients with very oily coats may need to bathe every other day for 2-3 weeks. Unlike primary seborrhea, local therapy for secondary seborrhea may differ from patient to patient and will be selected individually, since the degree of clinical manifestations of the disease will largely depend on the successful treatment of the underlying cause. As the underlying disease is treated, the interval between bathing increases.
Excessive bathing of dogs exacerbates seborrhea. If on the appointed day of bathing the coat is satisfactory, then the procedure should be postponed until the coat again reaches an unsatisfactory appearance.

The choice of dog bath depends on the type of seborrhea. In the presence of dry and inflamed skin, moisturizing hypoallergenic shampoos, cream shampoos with colloidal sulfur, softening shampoos based on chlorhexidine and antimicrobial shampoo with spherulites are used. For more severe skin flaking, products based on sulfur and salicylic acid are suitable, and for fungal overgrowth, products with antifungal activity are suitable.

In the presence of excessively contaminated coat, before using anti-seborrheic shampoos, pre-bathing with conventional products is performed. To achieve the maximum effect, specialized shampoos are left for 10-15 minutes, then the dog is thoroughly washed.
For the treatment of the oily form of seborrhea, shampoos with a stronger effect are used, while bathing is carried out more often than with the dry form. These dogs are more susceptible to secondary infections and should be treated appropriately. Dogs with soft to moderately oily skin can be bathed with shampoos containing sulfur, salicylic acid, or tarry products. Dogs with very oily skin are often bathed with selenium sulfide or benzoyl peroxide shampoos. After successful treatment of excess oil in the coat, shampoos with a weaker effect are used.
As an additional remedy for the treatment of a localized form of seborrhea, antiseborrheic drops for external use can be used. Such preparations are applied to dry areas of the skin, observed in the dry form ( seborrhea sicca ). Drops are able to restore the lipid barrier of the skin.
For the treatment of inflammation of the external auditory canal, agents are used that promote the dissolution and removal of earwax. The frequency of application is selected individually at the discretion of the veterinary dermatologist.

Differential (exclusive) diagnoses

Parasitic disease cheyletillosis caused by ticks Cheyletiella spp and seborrhea may have a similar clinical picture. Heiletiella are found in cats, rabbits, and dogs. Infection occurs by contact or through the environment. Heiletiella live in the upper layers of the skin, females lay eggs and attach them to the hair. Adult mites have a whitish tint, and are similar to scales in the dry form of seborrhea, due to their ability to move through the hair of these parasites are sometimes called “walking dandruff”. With cheiletillosis, dogs develop itching and flaking of the skin, especially pronounced in the back area. For treatment, drugs against ectoparasites and anti-seborrheic shampoos are used.

Whitish scales on the coat of a dog with cheyletillosis – “walking dandruff”, adult mite Cheyletiella spp . (Photos courtesy of the veterinary dermatologist of the clinic Biocontrol Kulik V.V.).

Ichthyosis has similar clinical manifestations. This is a rare congenital disease that occurs in various dog breeds, and is especially common in Golden Retrievers, Jack Russell Terriers, West Highland White Terriers and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. It usually occurs in a mild form, but some owners note the development of large, soft, whitish or grayish scales on the body of their pet, which adhere more closely to the skin and are more difficult to comb than with dry seborrhea. In some cases, dogs develop bacterial folliculitis (purulent inflammation of the hair follicles), which causes itching and, accordingly, the veterinarian may confuse this condition with an allergy.

Allergic reactions, including food allergy , are also one of the differential diagnoses. As a rule, lesions on the skin are similar to oily seborrhea. Allergies cause similar skin lesions, but, unlike seborrhea, allergic reactions are immediately accompanied by itching.

In the event of the presence of such a clinical sign in skin diseases as itching, the veterinarian may prescribe Apoquel to the animal. Apoquel is one of the drugs that relieve the symptoms of itching and inflammation in dogs with allergic reactions. It successfully eliminates the symptoms of any allergy, starting to act on average 4 hours after giving the pill. The drug is approved for long-term use and is well tolerated by dogs. Apoquel relieves swelling, redness and itching of the skin, including in the external auditory canal. Unlike other drugs aimed at eliminating the symptoms of an allergic reaction, this drug does not affect the results of clinical and diagnostic tests that will be performed at the appointment of a dermatologist.

Author: Pashintseva Natalia Valentinovna, morphologist of the Biocontrol veterinary clinic, candidate of biological sciences.

causes, treatment. What to do and how to get rid of dandruff in a puppy

Combing a dog every day, it is not difficult to notice the scales that have appeared, which fall off the pet’s fur coat in a white scattering. This not only spoils the appearance of the dog, it looks unkempt, but is also a signal to the owner to act. After all, dandruff in dogs reflects internal problems in the body. The reasons for its appearance are varied, so there is no need to guess: it will pass, it will not pass, you should act. The most important thing is to determine the root cause of dandruff in dogs. A veterinarian can help with this. So why does a dog get dandruff?

Contents

• 1. The main causes of dandruff
• 2. The treatment of dandruff in dogs
• 3. Preventive measures

The main causes of dandruff

always reflects the state of the dog’s skin. The natural process for the skin is the death of the upper layer of cells and their constant renewal. But the process occurs in such a way that it is almost imperceptible to the naked eye. But when massive peeling begins, which is hard not to notice, you should take a closer look at the animal: perhaps it is unhealthy.

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Consider the main reasons leading to increased shedding of dead skin particles:

1. One of the minor reasons that you can fix yourself is dry air in the room. Indoor air is often warm and dry in winter. This is facilitated by radiators that heat the room. By warming the air, they dry it. This leads to breathing problems in dogs, in addition, the skin of your beloved pet suffers. Hence the massive peeling, which frightens the owners so much and makes the fur unaesthetic. It is necessary to solve this problem. From this, it will be easier for a person to breathe, and the dog’s skin will acquire its original healthy appearance.
2. Another circumstance that leads to dandruff is malnutrition of the animal. If the pet’s diet lacks the necessary vitamins, macro- and microelements, this leads to a deterioration in the state of health in general, and the skin in particular. Hence the white coating, tightly fitting the skin. It interferes with air exchange, the pores are clogged, which sometimes even leads to hair loss. Some dog owners purchase dog food and believe that there should be no problems with the diet. This is absolutely wrong. For example, cheap feeds contain all sorts of flavors and dyes that cause food allergies, which can become the unwitting culprit of dandruff.
3. Dandruff occurs in some breeds during shedding. This is a temporary phenomenon, so you should not worry too much. Thoroughly comb your pet, and the skin will be updated pretty quickly.
4. Some dogs are very sensitive to the world around them. Therefore, the transferred stress can also negatively affect their health. And it can also cause increased peeling of the skin and the appearance of dandruff. Try not to bring the animal to stressful situations, it does not deserve it.
5. Sometimes tap water or water taken from the field can lead to health problems. For themselves, people have learned to boil it, so why should an animal drink raw water? Water collected in areas with unfavorable environmental conditions leads to a deterioration in the health of the pet, the skin reacts to this instantly: dandruff appears, worms can become a surprise worse. So we give water to the animal, as to our child: bottled or boiled.
6. Parasites that appear on the dog’s skin cause itching. She begins to itch intensely, hence the increase in the amount of dandruff. Coming from a walk, make it a rule to check the animal for the presence of ticks and other parasites. This is especially true in spring and summer days, when blood-sucking insects are activated and are looking for animals that could be perfectly settled. Ticks not only cause dandruff, but can also cause more serious diseases that can even lead to death. Therefore, do not let the animals run through the tall grass in the park during a walk, and after a walk, carefully comb them out and inspect them.
7. Some owners go overboard with washing their pets. This can cause various skin problems, dandruff is one of them. The dog’s coat does not need weekly washing, the less frequently this procedure is carried out, the better. With constant bathing, the natural fat is washed off the skin, it becomes dry. And if you consider that shampoo is an additional aggressive factor, then the consequences can be sad.
8. Hormonal disorders in the body always come out, dandruff appears, the dog loses hair. Therefore, if dandruff appears in large quantities and cannot be eliminated, visit a veterinary clinic. Diseases such as diabetes mellitus or eczema can only be detected by a doctor, and then only after laboratory tests.

Treating dandruff in dogs

The first thing to do in case of massive dandruff is to visit a veterinarian. Only after a series of studies can a correct diagnosis be made and the cause of the appearance of troubles on the skin identified.

If there are no special deviations in the health of the pet, the cause should be looked for in the external environment. Dandruff that appears in winter, caused by dry air, is treated as follows.

An air humidifier is installed in the room, you can additionally hang wet towels or sheets on the heating radiators. In addition, when combing a pet, the skin is moisturized with special products. The brush for combing is selected based on their parameters of the coat. It is necessary that it has a massage effect, then when combing, blood microcirculation will improve, the skin will be updated faster, and dandruff will disappear after a while.

If your pet eats store-bought food, try buying a non-economy range. Cheap food undermines the health of the dog, which affects the condition of its fur coat. And the best option is to switch to feeding natural meat products. This will improve the appearance of the dog. Her coat will become shiny and silky, and there will be no trace of dandruff.

Animals must be properly cared for. Frequent bathing for dogs is contraindicated. If the animal gets dirty on a walk, its paws are washed in warm water, but the torso, back and stomach are wiped with a damp cloth. This is enough to not upset the balance. Then dandruff will not appear.

If hair mites were found, then the work will increase a little. To do this, you will need to rewash all the things that the animal has dealt with: rugs, bedding. And if he sleeps on the owner’s bed, then the owner’s bed linen. The brushes with which the animal is combed are also treated with boiling water. If the pet has toys, then they are also subjected to disinfecting measures.

When dandruff is caused by skin problems, you can try shampoos that have a healing effect (eg Nizoral or Seborin). After water procedures, the dog is blotted with a towel or wrapped in it.