A yeast infection of the skin is a common skin concern for dogs.Malassezia is a type of yeast that is overproduced.All dogs are at risk, but certain breeds are more susceptible to this problem.It is important to get rid of the yeast.Pets are often very uncomfortable with infections.Secondary infections can be caused by the dog's constant scratching and chewing at their own skin.
Step 1: Look at the skin.
You can use this to identify the problem as a yeast infection.Dogs with a skin yeast infection will scratch relentlessly, so patches of hair loss and weepy, sticky skin are common.Look for skin that is moist.Blackening of the skin is reddening.There is hair loss in the area.There is a strong odor coming from the skin.
Step 2: There are behavioral symptoms of yeast skin infections.
Malassezia can cause strange behaviors in your dog, as well as showing specific dermatological symptoms.The symptoms are constant itching and scratching.If the infection is on your dog's skin or ears, shake or tilt the head.If the infection is on your dog's skin or ears, there will be a loss of balance or hearing.If the infection is on your dog's skin or ears, you should walk around in circles.
Step 3: Make sure your dog doesn't have skin allergies.
Dog scratching, dry skin, and yeast skin infections can all be symptoms of a skin allergy.An allergy test is the easiest way to rule out an allergy.If you have recently changed your dog's food, this could be causing an allergic reaction.If the symptoms disappear, you will know that your dog did not have Malassezia.
Step 4: Give your dog a list of symptoms.
yeast infections can be mistaken for other health problems, so it is important to have your vet opinion.To give to your vet, keep a list of your dog's skin symptoms.Your dog's medical history should be on file with your vet.Your vet can conduct medical testing on your dog with this information in hand.
Step 5: You should wash your dog.
It is often all that is needed to get a yeast infection under control.You should be able to find these at any pet store or vet office.If there is no secondary infections present, you should bathe your dog.The ingredients in the shampoo should include chlorhexidine.When bathing your dog, make sure that you lather it up for a full 10 minutes before rinsing it off.For full effectivity, give baths every 3-6 days for 2-12 weeks.
Step 6: Apply a cream.
If your dog has a yeast skin infection in a small area, you can apply a medical cream to it.You should be able to buy an antifungal cream from your doctor or pet store.For 7 to 10 days, apply a cream to the affected areas.To thoroughly cover the area, only apply a small amount of the cream.Instructions for applying the cream to your dog's skin will likely be included in the packaging.
Step 7: An oral treatment is needed for your dog.
If the yeast skin infection is chronic or does not respond to treatment, you may need to administer an oral treatment.An anti-fungal medication is usually prescribed by your doctor.There are many oral medications that contain itraconazole.For a long period of time, these medications need to be administered.There are unpleasant side effects of oral antifungal medications.These can affect your dog and need to be monitored by your vet.
Step 8: You can clean your dog's ears.
It is important to keep your dog's ears clean and free of yeast skin infections.Dog ear-cleaning solutions are not prescribed.Check your local pet store or vet office for retail brands.Most of the online home-made recipes use safe substances.Apply an ear cleaner designed to lower pH levels, clean the ear gently with a soft tissue, and apply yeast infection cream inside the ears as directed.If the yeast infection is deeper in your dog's middle ear, it will need to be treated with oral medication and possibly surgery.It can take up to six weeks for serious yeast ear infections to heal.
Step 9: If the yeast skin infections continues, see a vet.
If your pet's yeast skin infection is getting worse or not better at the end of treatment, you need to talk to your vet.Plan ahead to ask your vet questions, such as: "Is there anything I can do to keep my dog from scratching the area?"
Step 10: Common causes of yeast skin infections can be avoided.
There are certain stressors that may cause Malassezia yeast to grow differently.Keep your dog indoors during the heat and humidity.There are food and flea allergies.
Step 11: Know your dog's breed.
Dogs with excess skin folds are more susceptible to yeast skin infections.Dogs such as pugs and bulldogs are in this category.The poodles and basset hounds are two of the breeds that are prone to Malassezia infections.
Step 12: Your dog should be healthy.
When your dog's immune system is already compromised, Malassezia yeast can become pathogenic and cause harmful inflammation.All of your dog's immunizations should be kept up to date.After your dog has spent time outside, check for any injuries or cuts.These can become sick.