Pet Health: What You Need to Know

What's Under Your Dogs Fur? How To Spot Canine Skin Disorders

24 September 2020

Connor Hawkins

If you have dogs, you know how difficult it can be to get a good look at their skin, especially the areas that are covered by fur. But, it's important that you inspect their skin at least once a week. Skin disorders can cause serious problems for your dog. If your dog has a thick coat of fur, focus on the exposed areas of the skin, such as the belly, inner ears, and groin areas. Those are the areas where skin disorders will be most visible. If you notice any of the issues described below, consider animal care services for your dog right away. 

Open Sores

When you hear the word lupus, you probably think of the human autoimmune disorder. But, lupus can affect dogs as well. In most cases, you can identify lupus in dogs by the sores that develop on their body, especially around their eyes and nose. Lupus is a serious condition and should be treated right away. If you notice open sores on your dog's body, and those sores haven't been healing, it's time to seek medical care for your pet. 

Round Lesions

Dogs love to roll around in the grass and dirt. If you take your dog to local parks, they may spend time with other dogs. Unfortunately, that increases the risk for skin disorders, especially the infectious kind. Ringworm is one skin disorder that you really need to worry about. Ringworm can be transmitted through other dogs. But, it can also be transmitted to humans. You can identify ringworm by the small distinctive round lesions that develop. If your dog has ringworm, it should be treated right away. 

Discoloration

When you play with your dog often enough, you become familiar with the color of their underbelly. Any signs of discoloration should be taken seriously. This is especially true where the groin and perineum areas are concerned. Discoloration of those areas can be a sign that your dog has developed a yeast infection, especially if a foul odor is present as well. If you've noticed a thickening of the skin around the inner ears, groin, or perineum, and the areas have become discolored, contact the veterinarian as soon as possible. Your dog may have a yeast infection. 

Hair Loss

It's normal for dogs to shed a small amount of their hair. But, in most cases, the shedding will be from all areas of your dog's body. If you notice that your dog is losing hair in specific areas, it may be suffering from mange, especially if the skin is red and inflamed in those areas. Mange can be caused by an infestation of small skin mites. If your dog is suffering from hair loss, seek medical attention as soon as you can.

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