Early Stage Mange in Dogs: A Comprehensive Guide

Mange is a skin condition caused by mites that burrow into the skin, causing intense itching, hair loss, and skin irritation. In dogs, mange is most commonly caused by two types of mites: Sarcoptes scabiei and Demodex canis.

Early Stage Mange: Symptoms and Diagnosis

Early stage mange in dogs can be difficult to detect, as the symptoms are often mild and can easily be mistaken for other skin conditions, such as allergies or dry skin. Some of the early signs of mange include:

• Mild itching: At first, the itching may be intermittent and only occur in certain areas of the body, such as the ears, elbows, or belly.
• Small, red bumps: These bumps may appear on the skin, especially in areas where the itching is most intense.
• Hair loss: In some cases, hair loss may occur in small patches, especially around the ears and legs.
• Dry, flaky skin: The skin may become dry and flaky, and may appear slightly thickened.

Advanced Stage Mange: Symptoms and Diagnosis

If left untreated, early stage mange can progress to advanced stage mange, which is much more severe and difficult to treat. Symptoms of advanced stage mange include:

• Intense itching: The itching becomes constant and unbearable, causing the dog to scratch and bite at its skin excessively.
• Extensive hair loss: Hair loss becomes more severe and may affect large areas of the body.
• Skin thickening: The skin becomes thickened and leathery, and may develop deep folds and wrinkles.
• Secondary infections: The constant scratching and biting can lead to secondary infections, such as bacterial or yeast infections.

Treatment Options for Mange In Dogs

The treatment for mange depends on the type of mite causing the condition.

• Sarcoptic mange: This type of mange is treated with topical or oral medications that kill the mites. Treatment usually takes several weeks to complete, and the dog will need to be treated with a medicated shampoo or dip.
• Demodectic mange: This type of mange is often more difficult to treat, and may require a combination of topical and oral medications. Treatment can take several months to complete, and the dog may need to be treated with a medicated shampoo or dip.

Prevention of Mange In Dogs

The best way to prevent mange in dogs is to keep them away from other dogs that may be infected. If your dog does come into contact with an infected dog, wash your dog with a medicated shampoo and consult your veterinarian.

Additional Resources

• American Kennel Club: Mange in Dogs
• Merck Veterinary Manual: Mange in Dogs
• WebMD: Mange in Dogs