Our Guide and Advice on Dog Skin Conditions

Fleas are a common cause of skin disease in dogs, and some dogs develop an allergic reaction to flea bites. Affected dogs often show intense itching, particularly around the base of the tail, and may develop red, inflamed skin, scabs, or hair loss. Regular parasite control is essential, as fleas can live in the home environment as well as on your pet. 

Further reading: Fleas on Dogs

Environmental allergies (atopy) are one of the most common causes of skin disease in dogs, triggered by things like pollen, grass, and dust mites. Affected dogs typically develop itching of the face, feet, chest, or abdomen, and may lick or chew their paws. The skin is often red and inflamed, and problems can be seasonal or year-round. Management usually involves a combination of medication and topical treatments to control the itch and reduce flare-ups. 

Further reading: Atopic Dermatitis in Dogs

Food allergies are usually triggered by proteins in the diet, most commonly beef, chicken, dairy, or eggs, although other ingredients can also be involved. Dogs with food allergies often show itching affecting the ears, feet, face, or rear end, and some may also have recurrent ear or skin infections. Diagnosis requires a strict elimination diet carried out over several weeks, under veterinary guidance, to identify the underlying cause. 

Further reading: Food Allergies in Dogs

Mange is a skin condition caused by mites living on or in the skin. The two main types are demodectic mange, which tends to affect young or unwell dogs, and sarcoptic mange, which is highly itchy and contagious. Signs include hair loss, redness, and intense itching, often affecting the face, ears, and legs. Treatment involves prescription medication to eliminate the mites and relieve inflammation. 

Further reading: Demodectic Mange in Dogs, Sarcoptic Mange in Dogs

Bacterial skin infections (pyoderma) often develop secondary to underlying problems such as allergies or parasites. They may appear as small bumps, pustules, scabs, or areas of hair loss, and can cause significant irritation. Treatment usually involves antibiotics and medicated shampoos, alongside addressing the underlying cause. 

Further reading: Bacterial Skin Infections Conditions page

Yeast infections commonly affect warm, moist areas such as the ears, paws, groin, and skin folds.  Affected skin is often itchy, red, and may become greasy, thickened, and have a distinct unpleasant smell. Dogs will often lick, chew, or rub the area. Treatment usually involves topical or oral antifungal medication, along with managing any underlying cause.

Further reading: Yeast Infections Conditions page

Hot spots are localised areas of inflamed, infected skin that develop rapidly, often due to scratching, licking, or underlying irritation such as allergies or parasites. They appear as red, moist, painful patches of skin, sometimes with hair loss and discharge, and can worsen quickly if left untreated. Treatment usually involves clipping, cleaning, and medication to control infection and reduce irritation. 

Further reading: Hot Spots on Dogs

Ringworm is a contagious fungal infection that can spread to other animals and humans. It typically causes circular areas of hair loss with crusting or scaling, often affecting the head, paws, ears, or front legs. Prompt veterinary treatment is important to clear the infection and reduce the risk of spreading.

Further reading: Ringworm Conditions page

Some dogs develop dry, flaky skin (dandruff), particularly in colder weather or if their skin is sensitive. In mild cases, this may be cosmetic, but it can also be associated with underlying issues such as allergies, parasites, or infection. If dandruff is persistent or accompanied by itching or hair loss, a veterinary check is recommended.

Further reading: Dandruff and Dry Flay Skin Symptom

Autoimmune skin diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own skin. They can cause persistent sores, crusting, or wounds that do not heal, often affecting areas such as the nose, around the eyes, or the paws. Although less common, these conditions can be serious and require prompt veterinary investigation and ongoing treatment.

Further reading: Autoimmune Skin Disease in Dogs Conditions page

This advice is for UK pets only and is not a replacement for seeing a vet