As a dog parent, it’s never easy to see your furry friend uncomfortable or in pain. One condition that can cause a lot of distress to both you and your dog is mange—a skin disease caused by tiny mites. The itching, hair loss, and skin infections that mange can cause are not only hard to watch but also tough for your pet to endure. But with the right care and knowledge, mange is treatable and preventable.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about mange in dogs, from understanding the types and causes to identifying symptoms and getting the right treatment. Let’s dive in to help your pup feel better and stay healthy!

What is Mange in Dogs?

Mange is a skin condition caused by microscopic mites that burrow into a dog’s skin or hair follicles. These mites cause itching, irritation, hair loss, and even skin infections if left untreated. There are two primary types of mange that affect dogs: sarcoptic mange and demodectic mange. Each type behaves differently, but both can make your dog incredibly uncomfortable.

1. Sarcoptic Mange (Scabies)

Sarcoptic mange, also known as scabies, is caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. This type of mange is highly contagious and can spread to other dogs, pets, and even humans. These mites burrow into the skin, causing intense itching, redness, and hair loss. It’s common in dogs with compromised immune systems and often affects stray or neglected animals.

Key symptoms of sarcoptic mange:

• Intense itching
• Redness and irritation, especially around the ears, elbows, and belly
• Crusty skin lesions
• Hair loss in patches
• Secondary infections due to excessive scratching

2. Demodectic Mange (Demodex)

Demodectic mange is caused by the Demodex mite, which is typically present in small numbers on healthy dogs. It usually doesn’t cause any harm unless a dog’s immune system is weakened. Puppies are especially prone to demodectic mange as their immune systems aren’t fully developed.

Key symptoms of demodectic mange:

• Hair loss, especially around the face and paws
• Scaly, thickened skin
• Redness and inflammation
• In severe cases, a foul odor from skin infections

Unlike sarcoptic mange, demodectic mange is not contagious. However, it can still lead to discomfort, and if untreated, may result in secondary skin infections.

What Causes Mange in Dogs?

The mites responsible for mange are naturally present on many dogs in small, harmless amounts. However, certain factors can cause these mites to overgrow, leading to mange.

• Weak immune system: Puppies, elderly dogs, or dogs recovering from illness are more vulnerable to mange.
• Poor nutrition: A diet lacking in essential nutrients can weaken your dog’s immune system.
• Stress: Physical or emotional stress may trigger a flare-up of mange.
• Close contact with infected animals: For sarcoptic mange, direct contact with other infected dogs is a common cause.
• Unhygienic living conditions: Dirty or unsanitary environments can exacerbate the risk of a mange infestation.

Symptoms of Mange in Dogs

Mange can show a variety of symptoms depending on the type and severity. It’s essential to catch these early signs to prevent the condition from worsening.

• Severe itching: Constant scratching and biting at the skin.
• Hair loss: Often seen in patches, especially around the face, ears, and legs.
• Red, inflamed skin: The skin may appear irritated or have open sores.
• Crusty or scaly patches: Dry, crusted areas of skin, often around the ears and elbows.
• Foul odor: In severe cases, mange can lead to bacterial or fungal infections, causing an unpleasant smell.
• Lethargy and depression: Dogs with severe mange may lose energy and interest in activities due to the discomfort.

How Do Veterinarians Diagnose Mange?

If you suspect your dog has mange, it’s essential to consult your vet for an accurate diagnosis. Your vet may perform one or more of the following tests:

• Physical examination: The vet will inspect your dog’s skin and hair for signs of mites or irritation.
• Skin scraping: A small scraping of your dog’s skin is taken and examined under a microscope to identify mites.
• Hair plucking: A sample of hair may be taken to check for mites hiding in hair follicles.
• Biopsy: In severe cases, a skin biopsy may be performed to rule out other skin conditions.
• Fecal tests: Sometimes, mites can be identified through a fecal exam as dogs may ingest them while grooming.

Treatment for Mange in Dogs

The good news? Mange is treatable! The treatment depends on the type of mange and the severity of the infestation.

• Medicated shampoos and dips: These are specially formulated to kill mites and soothe irritated skin. Your vet may recommend using them regularly until the infestation clears.
• Topical ointments: Creams and lotions can help alleviate itching and irritation while eliminating mites.
• Oral medications: In severe cases, your vet may prescribe oral medications to kill the mites from within.
• Antibiotics or antifungals: If your dog has developed a secondary infection due to scratching, additional medication may be needed to treat the infection.
• Frequent bathing and grooming: Regular baths help wash away dead skin cells, mites, and debris, promoting faster healing.

Important tip: Follow your vet’s instructions carefully and ensure that your dog completes the entire course of treatment, even if symptoms seem to improve. This will prevent the mites from coming back.

Preventing Mange in Dogs

Prevention is always better than cure! While mange isn’t always avoidable, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of your dog developing this uncomfortable condition.

• Regular grooming: Keep your dog’s coat clean and free from debris. Regular grooming helps you spot any potential skin issues early.
• Balanced diet: Feed your dog a nutrient-rich diet to support a strong immune system.
• Clean living environment: Ensure your dog’s living space is hygienic and free from pests that may spread mites.
• Avoid contact with infected animals: If you know another pet has mange, avoid direct contact until they are treated.
• Routine vet check-ups: Regular vet visits can help catch mange or other skin conditions early, allowing for prompt treatment.

Can Mange in Dogs Be Fatal?

In most cases, mange itself is not life-threatening. However, if left untreated, it can lead to severe infections and complications that may put your dog’s life at risk. In extreme cases, a dog’s immune system may be so compromised by the mites and secondary infections that it cannot recover without aggressive treatment. This is why early diagnosis and treatment are critical.

Final Thoughts: Care for Your Dog Like Family

Mange can be a distressing experience for both you and your dog, but it’s important to remember that with the right care, it’s entirely treatable. As a dog parent, your best course of action is to stay informed, seek veterinary help, and provide your dog with a healthy, loving environment.

Whether it’s providing soothing shampoos, preventive care, or expert advice, Supertails is here to support you through every step of your pet care journey. Remember, your furry friend is counting on you for love, comfort, and care—even during the tough times.