If you notice your dog itching more than the usual or gets overly irritated by the slightest things, the chances are that it might be a yeast infection. While it may be any other form of bacterial infection, a yeast overgrowth could be the likely culprit. The signs are noticeable mostly around the ears, but it could also be seen in other parts of the body.
While the situation could be uncomfortable for canines, there are easy ways to treat yeast infections in dogs. The best way to go about it will be to visit your vet and get further diagnosis and treatment. If you are wondering what symptoms to look out for and how best to treat your pet’s ailment, you can read below for more.
Causes of Yeast Infections in Dogs
The primary cause of a bacterial contagion is a compromised immune system. Hot weather could also make your pooch allergic to the environment and susceptible to germs. Candida could be a significant factor for yeast overgrowth. This occurs on the skin but can also grow inside the body. When it occurs on the ear, it could be due to allergens passing through the ear canal, causing the growth of yeast.
Breeds of dogs with large skin fold are more likely to suffer from dermatitis, and examples include Shih Tzu, Cocker Spaniel, Basset Hound, and the Golden Retriever. Bulldogs, Lhasa Apsos, and Poodles are also at risk. A topical treatment could be enough for dermal infections, but those of the middle and inner ear may need a different approach.
When yeast overgrowth occurs in the small intestine, it could irritate the gut’s lining—this results in weakness around the cell junction, encouraging the passage of virus and bacteria into the bloodstream. In this situation, the best form of treatment will be to solve the leaky gut’s problem.
The excessive use of steroids or antibiotics could also be the cause of yeast poison in dogs. Excess traces of foreign substances reduce the bacteria in the gut, and a complete detox treatment with probiotics could restore hormonal levels. There are more tips here on how self-administration can put you or your pet at risk. You can find below a list of the major causes of bacterial infections in canines.
- Allergens (dust, pollen, mold, cigarette smoke, cleaning liquids, or feather)
- Bacterial infection
- Steroids
- Drug abuse
- Hot weather
- Ear tumor
- Certain foods
Signs and Symptoms of Yeast Infections in Dog
You can quickly tell when there is a skin infection if you notice your pooch scratching its skin or swirling its head. It is common to see inflammation and bruises on the ear, nose, and other parts of the face. The symptoms of yeast infection are shared with many other canine ailments, so if you suspect any signs below, you may want to seek medical assistance.
- Sores
- Green or yellow sticky discharge
- Loss of hair
- Smelly skin
- Shaking or tilting of the head
- Flaky, crusty skin
- Ear infections
- Redness and swelling on the face or affected area
- Greasy coat
- Loss of hearing
- Uncoordinated movements
- Licking or chewing on the feet
- Diarrhea
A few tests will be conducted on your pet to know if there is a yeast overgrowth, and once results return positive, you can then begin a treatment regimen.
How to Treat Dog Yeast Infections?
Like with any other fungus or bacterial anomaly, you want to boost the immune system and stop the further actions of the fungi or bacteria. Some of the treatment options available for dog skin problems include
Topical Application
The use of a balm or ointment to treat sores and scarring on the skin could help deal with the itching. Medications such as ketoconazole and miconazole are potent in treating skin related problems. Using a combination of shampoo, creams, and powders for canine dermatitis could provide relief to your pet.
A cleaning solution or cleanser could be used for contaminations of the inner ear. There is more information on this page https://pets.webmd.com/dogs/yeast-infection-in-dogs-causes-treatment-and-prevention#:~:text=If%20your%20dog%20has%20a,medicines%20that%20are%20often%20effective. about how best to treat a yeast infection in dogs.
Oral Medication
There are pills available that can help deal with an infection in dogs. The use of anti-inflammatory medications can help reduce swelling and provide relief from diarrhea. Your vet remains the best person to advise you on the best form of treatment, so you want to check in with one before administering any medication.
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