Understanding Mange in Dogs

Feb 24, 2025 Leave a comment

Mange is a common and contagious skin disease in dogs that typically leads to itching, hair loss, and skin inflammation. It’s caused by microscopic mites that either burrow into the skin or multiply in hair follicles, causing inflammation and irritation. With treatment, mange can be managed effectively, allowing you and your pet to return to a comfortable, healthy life.

How do dogs get mange

Infections occur when dogs come into contact with mange mites, either through direct exposure to an infected animal or from contaminated environments such as bedding, grooming tools, or furniture. Some mites easily spread between dogs, while others are naturally found on most dogs and only cause issues when they overpopulate. Dogs with robust immune systems are less likely to face complications, whereas puppies and older or sick dogs are at a greater risk.

Direct physical contact with an affected animal
Weakened immune systems from illness, stress, or malnutrition
Poor grooming habits, as dirt and oil buildup, can worsen infections
Certain genetic predispositions - some breeds are more vulnerable

Recognizing the signs

Early detection is crucial. Symptoms may start subtly but worsen over time, so knowing what to look for can prevent complications.

Common symptoms of mange:

Hair loss - either small patches of hair thinning, or widespread bald spots
Intense itching and constant scratching
Red, inflamed, or scaly skin
Thick or crusty skin, in advanced cases
A foul odor (caused by secondary infections)

Affected dogs often have behavioral changes as well. Common signs are restlessness, irritability, and excessive self-grooming.

Different types of mange

All types of mange are caused by mites, but not all infections are identical. The two primary types vary in their transmission, symptoms, and the severity of the infection.

Sarcoptic (scabies) is highly contagious and causes severe itching. It can spread between dogs and also to humans.
Demodectic: Less contagious, but more prevalent in dogs with weakened immune systems.

Understanding how each type spreads, its symptoms, and the best treatment options is key to keeping your pet healthy and comfortable.

Sarcoptic mange (canine scabies)

Sarcoptic mange is caused by Sarcoptes scabiei mites, which burrow into the skin's surface and cause intense itching and irritation. It’s highly contagious and spreads through direct contact or touching contaminated objects like bedding, collars, and grooming tools.

Symptoms of sarcoptic mange:

Severe itching and excessive scratching
Red, inflamed skin with crusting or scabs
Patchy hair loss, especially on ears, belly, and elbows
Thick or leathery skin, in chronic cases

This type requires immediate treatment since it can rapidly spread between dogs. It can also transfer to humans, but the mites can't complete their lifecycle on human skin, so they will eventually die.

Demodectic mange (demodicosis)

Demodectic mange is caused by the Demodex canis mite, which naturally lives on most dogs' skin without a problem. However, when their immune systems are compromised, these mites multiply, leading to skin irritation and infections.

Symptoms of demodectic mange:

Hair loss - often in patches on the face, legs, or paws
Red, scaly, and inflamed skin
Mild itching
Greasy or crusty patches on the skin surface

This type isn’t contagious, but it can reoccur in dogs with immune system issues.

Breeds with higher susceptibility

Certain breeds are more prone to mange because of their coat, immune function, or genetic makeup. Understanding these breed-specific vulnerabilities can help owners prevent outbreaks. Regular grooming, skin checks, and vet visits can help catch it early before there's a serious issue.

Higher-risk breeds:

American Pit Bull Terrier - this breed has a genetic predisposition due to a weaker immune response to Demodex mites.
Dachshunds - are prone to immune system deficiencies, making them more vulnerable to mite overgrowth.
Shiba Inu - genetic factors may make them more susceptible to both sarcoptic and demodectic mange.
Shar Pei and bulldogs - their deep skin folds create warm, moist environments where mites can thrive.

How is it diagnosed?

Your veterinarian will perform a thorough exam to confirm the presence of mites and rule out other skin conditions. They’ll likely ask about your dog’s history, including symptoms, recent exposure to other animals, and any pre-existing health conditions.

Typical methods for making a definitive diagnosis include examining a skin scraping or hair sample under a microscope, using Wood’s lamp test and UV light to rule out other conditions, performing a fungal bacterial or culture test, and, in severe cases, performing a skin biopsy or blood test.

After diagnosis, they may suggest follow-up visits to ensure that the treatment is working and that the mites are gone.

Treatment options

Mange won’t heal by itself. However, with proper care, you'll usually notice improvement within a few weeks, and a full recovery generally takes from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the severity.

The right treatment approach depends on the type and severity of mange, but early intervention is key to easing discomfort and starting to heal.

Professional treatments:

Topical treatments like shampoos, dips, or spot-on medications
Oral medications such as ivermectin or milbemycin
Antibiotics, if a bacterial infection develops
Anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce itching and swelling

Home remedies for symptom relief:

While medical treatment is essential, some home remedies can support or speed up their healing:

Twice-weekly baths with vet-approved medicated shampoos
Coconut oil or aloe vera to soothe irritated skin

Deep clean your house:

Mites can live in your home, so a thorough deep cleaning is an important part of treatment and to prevent reinfection.

Wash all bedding and blankets (both human and pet) in hot water
Vacuum and disinfect carpets and furniture
Sanitize pet grooming tools and collars
Limit contact with infected dogs until treatment is complete

How to prevent mange

Preventing infestations requires combining good hygiene, regular veterinary care, and proactive parasite control. Maintaining your dog’s immune system through a balanced diet and exercise helps them fend off potential infestations. Regular grooming, washing bedding, and cleaning living areas can minimize the presence of mites in your dog’s environment. Furthermore, using veterinarian-approved flea and mite preventatives can shield your dog from exposure to parasites that cause mange.

Conclusion

Mange is a painful but treatable condition that requires early detection, appropriate treatment, and preventive care. By understanding the various types of mange, recognizing symptoms, and adhering to a vet-approved treatment plan, you can help your dog recover swiftly and prevent future outbreaks.