One of the most common infections in dogs is yeast infection. Find out what to do when your dog starts itching uncontrollably and find out which treatments are most effective.
What are yeast infections in dogs?
A yeast infection occurs when there is an overabundance of yeast on the dog’s body. Yeasts are budding, spore-like forms of fungi that normally live on the body without causing disease. It is only when their numbers increase that they cause problems.
Signs and symptoms of yeast infection in dogs:
Yeast thrives in moist environments, so for dogs, it can be found in places like ears, paws, armpits, groin and even facial creases in some breeds. A doctor will be able to make a definitive diagnosis, but as an owner, watch for these specific symptoms.
Changes in skin color and texture. In the early stages of a yeast infection, the skin may turn pink or red. When dealing with a chronic yeast infection, the skin can become leathery, thick, and gray or black.
- Smooth skin. Skin may be oily or excessively oily.
- Itchy skin. Some dogs may develop scaly, crusting, or shiny skin similar to dandruff.
- Nod and tilt your head. Since a dog’s ears are the most common place for yeast infections, pay close attention if your dog begins to exhibit these behaviors.
“Scratches and rubs. Yeast infections are incredibly itchy, and some dogs will try to scratch the infected area or rub themselves against the floor, furniture or other surfaces to relieve themselves.”
to lick Constant licking of the affected area is another way the dog may try to find relief.
Swelling and heat. Redness and swelling are the first signs of a yeast infection, but a dog’s symptoms can progress to swelling, warmth, and pain in the affected area.
“Another common symptom of a foul-smelling yeast infection is a distinct smell, which will likely be the first clue that your dog has the condition. The odor has been described by dog owners as mimicking the smell of a masti or cheese.”
hair loss For yeast infections in the ear, which may be related to inflammation, there will be hair loss around the ears.
Inadvertence Although extremely rare, a yeast infection can occur inside the mouth, causing missingness, discomfort and difficulty eating. These symptoms can also be indicators of other oral problems that can be diagnosed by your doctor.
What are the clinical symptoms of a yeast skin infection?
The most common clinical symptoms of yeast dermatitis are:
- Itching and redness
- foul smell
- Scales and crusty, rough skin
- Thick skin (“elephant skin”)
- Hyperpigmentation (dark skin)
- Chronic or recurrent otitis externa or ear infections.
- Types of yeast infections in dogs and how to recognize them.
- Yeast infection in the ears
A dog’s ear canal is L-shaped, tapering toward the head. This dark, warm, moist environment is the perfect environment for yeast infections to thrive. The two types of yeast most commonly found in dog ears are Candida and Malassezia.
Yeast infections can occur anywhere in your dog’s ears. A dog with an ear yeast infection may show these symptoms:
- Ear scratching and digging
- Rub your head against the floor, walls or furniture.
- Excessive shaking of the head
- strong smell
- Brown, yellow, or bloody discharge
- A skin or hair attached to the oracle
- Swelling and redness
- Hair loss around the base of the ear
Early diagnosis and treatment of ear yeast infection is very important before it spreads deeper. If a yeast infection spreads deep into the ear, it can cause severe pain and complications, such as hearing loss, vestibular imbalance, or nerve damage.
What causes yeast infections in dogs?
Yeast infections in dogs are usually secondary problems. This means that there is some other problem that is weakening the skin’s defense mechanism to allow the yeast to grow in higher numbers than normal.
It is very common to see a yeast infection in the ears or on the skin if a dog has food or environmental allergies. Other underlying issues that can cause yeast infections in dogs include hormonal issues or other illnesses that suppress the immune system.
There are no studies to confirm that any of the following causes a yeast infection on a dog’s skin.
- Antibiotics
- Brewer’s yeast
- Oatmeal shampoo
- Carbohydrates or sugars in food
How to treat yeast infection in dogs?
The first step in treatment is to identify and treat the underlying cause of the yeast infection. Along with medications, home remedies can not only provide relief but can also be a preventative measure.
Home remedies may include the following:
Medicinal baths. Unless there is a secondary infection, a medicated antifungal shampoo can help keep the yeast infection under control. Bathe your dog every 3-5 days for 2-12 weeks (or as directed by your vet) for maximum effect.
Topical cream. If the infection is in a small area, you can apply an antifungal cream directly to the area and cover it. Medicated creams should come with specific instructions, so follow them carefully.
Clean your dog’s ears. Since the ears are one of the most common areas for yeast infections, it’s important to keep them clean. Using a dog ear cleaning solution designed to lower the pH level, gently clean the ear with a soft tissue or cotton ball (do not insert cotton swabs into the ear canal) and if necessary So apply ear cream against yeast infection. ear as directed.
“If the infection is deep inside the ear canal, oral medications and possibly surgery may be needed. Only your veterinarian can determine the course of action in this situation. A yeast infection in the ear can take up to six weeks to heal.”
Keep paws clean and dry. A dog’s sweat glands are primarily found in their paws, so it’s a good idea to clean them after long or vigorous exercise. Also, paws often come into contact with dirt, especially when walking or playing outside, so this is another reason to keep them clean.
Monitor your dog’s diet. A healthy diet is the key and foundation of good health. Yeast loves sugar, so avoid and eliminate foods rich in refined carbohydrates such as potatoes, corn, wheat, rice, honey and high-fructose corn syrup from your dog’s diet. You should also avoid feeding your dog.
Are there home remedies for yeast infections in dogs?
The only home remedy for yeast infections in dogs that has scientific data to back it up is a vinegar rinse. A vinegar rinse helps change the skin’s pH to make it less desirable for yeast. Adequate mixing is essential to avoid irritation. You should try this only after talking to your doctor for guidance and direction.