Mange on Dogs: Pictures, Causes & Effective Treatment
Mar 21,2025 | puaintapets
Mange is a skin disease caused by mites that burrow into a dog’s skin, leading to intense itching, hair loss, scabs, and skin infections. This condition can be uncomfortable and even painful for dogs, making early detection and treatment essential.
What Does Mange Look Like on a Dog? Symptoms to Watch For
1. Hair Loss (Alopecia)
- Dogs with mange lose fur in patches, especially on the face, legs, and belly.
- Bald spots may spread if left untreated.
Related: Dogs Hair Falling Out: What to Do
2. Intense Itching & Scratching
- Dogs with sarcoptic mange experience extreme itching, leading to constant scratching.
- Demodectic mange may or may not cause itching, depending on severity.
3. Red, Inflamed Skin
- Affected areas may become red, swollen, and irritated.
- Severe cases can lead to open wounds and scabbing.
4. Crusty or Scaly Patches
- Mange can cause thick, crusty patches of skin, especially around the ears, elbows, and paws.
- Flaky, dry skin is common with demodectic mange.
5. Secondary Skin Infections
- Bacterial and fungal infections may develop, causing pustules, swelling, and foul odors.
- Infected skin may appear oozing or have a greasy texture.
6. Thickened Skin & Pigment Changes
- Chronic mange can cause darkened skin (hyperpigmentation) and a thick, leathery texture.
How Do Dogs Get Mange?
Dogs can get mange in the following ways:
1.Sarcoptic Mange
- Direct Contact: Sarcoptic mange, also known as scabies, is highly contagious and can be transmitted through direct contact with an infected dog. This can occur in places where dogs are in close proximity, such as shelters, boarding facilities, or dog parks.
- Indirect Contact: Although less common, sarcoptic mites can also be transmitted indirectly through infested bedding, collars, or toys. However, the mites do not survive long in the environment without a host.
2.Demodectic Mange
- Maternal Transmission: Demodectic mange is caused by Demodex mites, which are normally present in small numbers on a dog's skin. Puppies can acquire these mites from their mother during nursing.
3. Weakened Immune System
- Demodectic mange is more common in dogs with a weakened immune system, such as puppies, senior dogs, or sick dogs.
4. Mother-to-Puppy Transmission
- Demodex mites are naturally present on a dog’s skin and can be passed from mother to puppies during nursing.
How to Treat Mange in Dogs
1. Medicated Shampoos for Mange Relief
Bathing your dog with a soothing, medicated shampoo can help relieve itching, kill mites, and heal the skin.
🛁 Banov Shampoo for Skin Disease – specially formulated to:
✔ Kill mites and bacteria
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✔ Heal irritated and infected skin
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2. Prescription Medications
- Veterinarians may prescribe oral or topical medications like ivermectin, selamectin, or milbemycin to kill mites.
- Anti-inflammatory drugs may be needed for severe itching and swelling.
3. Topical Treatments & Skin Soothing Sprays
- Apply antibacterial and antifungal sprays to prevent secondary infections.
![Quantum Silver Skin Spray for Dogs/ Cats]()
- Keep your dog’s skin moisturized and soothed to speed up healing.
4. Wash Bedding & Clean Your Dog’s Living Area
- Wash all bedding, blankets, and dog accessories in hot water to remove mites.
- Regularly vacuum and disinfect floors, furniture, and carpets to prevent reinfection.
5. Strengthen Your Dog’s Immune System
- Provide a nutrient-rich diet with omega-3 fatty acids for healthy skin.
![Puainta Krill Salmon Oil For Dogs rich in omega 3]()
- Reduce stress and ensure your dog gets enough rest and exercise.
How to Prevent Mange in Dogs
1.Sarcoptic Mange Prevention
- Regular Veterinary Check-ups
Routine visits to the vet can help detect mange early and prevent its spread.
- Good Hygiene
Keep your dog clean and well-groomed, but avoid over-bathing as it can strip the skin of its natural oils. Wash your dog's bedding, toys, and collar regularly.
- Avoid Contact with Infected Animals
Keep your dog away from other animals with mange.
- Use Preventative Medications
Some flea and tick preventatives can also help prevent mange. Consult your vet for the best option for your dog.
2.Demodectic Mange Prevention
- Boost Immune System
A healthy diet and regular exercise can help keep your dog's immune system strong.
- Manage Stress
Minimize stress in your dog's life as stress can weaken the immune system.
- Regular Grooming
Regular brushing and grooming can help distribute natural oils in the skin and keep the coat healthy.
- Avoid Overuse of Antibiotics
Overuse of antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria on the skin, potentially leading to mange.
By following these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of your dog developing mange.
FAQs
Can mange be cured?
Yes, both sarcoptic and demodectic mange can be treated. Treatment usually involves medications prescribed by a veterinarian, which may include topical creams, oral medications, or medicated shampoos.
Is mange in dogs contagious to other pets or humans?
Sarcoptic mange is highly contagious to other dogs and can be transmitted to humans, causing a temporary itchy rash. Demodectic mange is not contagious between dogs or to humans, as it is related to a dog's own immune system and the normal Demodex mites on its skin.
How long does it take to treat mange?
The length of treatment depends on the severity of the mange. Mild cases may be treated within a few weeks, while more severe cases can take several months of consistent treatment.
What can I do to prevent mange in my dog?
Maintaining good hygiene, providing a balanced diet to boost the immune system, and avoiding contact with infected animals can help prevent mange. Regular vet check - ups can also detect any early signs of mite infestation.
Conclusion
Mange is a treatable condition, but early detection is key. If your dog shows signs of mange, act quickly to relieve their discomfort and prevent further skin damage.
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