Yeast is a fungus that grows in moist areas and it is normal for your dog to have some amount of it growing on them. However, in warm and humid seasons yeast can overpopulate, and cause problems, especially if dog's have vulnerable immune systems.
A yeast infection will usually affect your dog's skin, and the fungus will cause irritation and discomfort. Dogs will scratch, lick, bite, and even scoot along the floor in an attempt to soothe themselves.
It is important to know the symptoms of dog skin fungus, and to know how to combat them and alleviate your dog's frustrations.
Causes Of Dog Skin Fungus
There are certain things that predispose your pet to yeast infections. Hot and humid conditions are one of them. If your dog has big floppy ears or lots of flappy skin then they are also more likely to get yeast infections, as the flaps will provide a perfect environment for the yeast to breed.
A fungal infection is especially likely to occur if your dog's immune system is unbalanced, or weak. This can happen for a number of different reasons, such as the common fleabite allergy, inhalant or contact allergy, or after a course of steroids or antibiotics. Yeast infections can also stand-alone.
Symptoms To Look Out For
If you see your dog itching and scratching, and licking and biting in certain areas, then keep an eye in them to see if you can see symptoms of skin fungus, such as these:
- Intense itching, inflammation, and irritation
- Foul yeasty smell
- Your dog licks and chews, especially their paws, armpits, ears, nose and anus
- Possible redness of skin, sores, and hair loss due to scratching and chewing
- Greasy coat
- If ears are infected may see a pinkish-brown discharge
Treatments For Dog Skin Fungus
The main treatment that you can give your dog for skin fungus is a weekly bath using the high quality natural products that contain antifungal properties. You can also use antifungal creams and sprays, and natural conditioners to remoisten the skin. Your vet may also prescribe antifungal drops if your dog suffers from a yeast ear infection.
Soos Pets recommends our Deep Cleansing Shampoo (or our Hypoallergenic Shampoo if your dog has allergies or sensitive skin) and our Home Hydrotherapy Salt Soak because it is specially designed to remove yeast build up from the paws and body. Simply add it to the bath water as you bathe your dog and occasionally pour it over them. Additionally, many of our Dead Sea enriched products, such as our Mineral Enriched Rescue Cream, are fortified with antifungal agents that will help to relieve itching, moisturize skin, and reduce yeast build up by nipping the problem in the bud.
In order to rule out an underlying cause, you should also take your pup to the vet to be examined and treated if necessary. Lastly, your dog's immune system can be enhanced with digestive tract such as probiotics, and supplements such as digestive enzymes, which will stop the fungus getting out of hand in the future.