Dog Mange is a highly contagious skin condition caused by an infestation of mites. These mites burrow beneath a dog’s skin, primarily in the hair follicles. Mange can affect domestic animals, wild animals and sometimes even humans. There are many different types of dog mange, and depending on the severity, sometimes dog mange can lead to serious illness or even death.
The word ‘dog mange’ actually comes from the French word ‘mangier’, which means ‘to eat’. This is exactly what these mites do. Mites from dog mange cause skin lesions, severe itching and bald patches all over the fur. It is important to understand how your dog may have contracted mange, as well as look out for symptoms of each type of dog mange.
Types Of Dog Mange
Demodectic Mange
This is the most common type of dog mange. Demodectic mange may occur when a dog has an underdeveloped or weak immune system. Mites may produce more rapidly if the dog is under stress or is malnourished. The symptoms of demodectic dog mange worsen depend on the condition of the immune system and the amount of mites on the skin. Demodectic dog mange symptoms include hair loss and itching, and is usually on various areas of the dog.