Mange is a condition caused by the invasion of microscopic mites that are closely related to ticks. Both dogs and cats are highly susceptible to infection. Its main symptoms include intense itching, inflammation, irritation, and even hair loss. But did you know that not all types of mange in dogs are the same?
Keep reading to find out what the different types of dog mange are, what symptoms they cause, how serious they can be, and what a dog looks like in case of contagion…
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How many dog mange types are there?
There are mainly two types: Demodectic mange is caused by Demodex canis, and Sarcoptic mange is caused by Sarcoptes scabiei. Sarcoptic mange can be contagious to humans and dogs, while demodectic mange is not contagious.
The sarcoptic mange and demodectic mange are the most widely recognized however, there are other variations of the disease.
According to specialized sources, 7 types of mange in dogs are recognized in total:
- Sarcoptic mange
- Demodectic mange
- Otodectic mange
- Cheyletiellosis
- Notohedral mange
- Thrombiculosis
- Scabies Pneumonyssoides
Let’s see which organisms are responsible and what symptoms appear in each case …
1. Sarcoptic mange
This is usually the type of mange in dogs that we are most familiar with. Also known as canine scabies, sarcoptic mange is caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei. It is a highly contagious condition; most dogs become infected through direct contact with a sick dog, for example in parks, kennels, veterinary clinics, etc. Symptoms may appear within 2 to 6 weeks.
This scabies is characterized by extreme itching, redness, and inflammation, as well as the formation of bald patches and scaly skin. The most affected areas of the body are usually those with less hair or fine furs, such as ears, elbows, armpits, and belly. Typically, the infected dog will not stop scratching or biting these areas.
Over time, the mites can penetrate anywhere and spread throughout the body. The risk is much higher if the pet does not receive treatment. A dog with recurring mange could develop seborrhea, severe thickening of the skin with crusting and weeping sores.
2. Demodectic mange
Demodicosis, demodectic mange, or simply red mange, is the second most common type of mange in dogs. This is caused by the Demodex Canis mite, which lives in hair follicles. Despite being common, most infected dogs do not develop symptoms. Still, the condition can become serious in some cases.
This includes dogs that are very old or have a depressed immune system.
It is said that many puppies contract the mites from their mother during the first few days after birth. The presence of symptoms in the future may vary depending on immunity or genetic factors.
There are 3 forms of demodectic mange:
- Located. It causes hair loss, followed by the formation of red patches and crusts on the face or front legs. It almost exclusively affects puppies.
- Generalized. Like the localized variation, it causes baldness and scaly red skin, but this time the symptoms spread throughout the body. Most of the dogs that suffer from it are young, although it can also affect an immunosuppressed adult dog.
- Demodectic pododermatitis. In this case, the condition only affects the footpads.
Dogs with localized demodectic mange have a good chance of making a full recovery. Those with the generalized variant may recover or need treatment for the rest of their lives. The younger the dog, the greater the chance of achieving a complete cure.
3. Otodectic mange
This form of mange is caused by the species of mites Otodectes cynotis, also known as ear mites. Commonly, these parasites infect the outer ear, causing inflammation of the ear canal in dogs and cats. Sometimes the infection can spread to the body.
In case of contagion, the dog experiences itching, which can vary from moderate to intense. It is very common for the pet to shake its head and scratch its ears. In purebred dogs with erect ears, they may look droopy. Severe cases of otodectic mange can develop significant inflammation and pus production.
The treatment indicated by the veterinarian usually combines medication with a careful cleaning routine.
4. Cheyletiellosis
Another type of mange in dogs is cheyletiellosis, a condition caused by the mites Cheyletiella yasguri. These can be seen walking on the dog’s skin, hence it is known by many as ” walking dandruff “. It is very contagious mange, especially in kennels, batteries, or homes with multiple pets.
The infection is usually most visible along the back and is characterized by symptoms of intense itching and peeling of the skin. Some dogs may show no symptoms other than mites, causing a higher risk of contagion to other pets and humans.
5. Notohedral mange
For its part, notoedral mange is the condition resulting from infection with the feline mite Notoedres cati. These are closely related to sarcoptic mange mites, hence the two types of mange are similar. Both conditions usually begin with the formation of crusts and scales on the margins of the ears, which are very itchy.
The problem can progress to affect the face and ultimately spread to the entire body if left untreated.
6. Trombiculosis
Trombiculosis is a seasonal, non-contagious form of scabies caused by mites of the family Trombiculidae (chiggers) in their larval stage. Dogs and cats are commonly affected by this condition. Since parasites roam freely in heavily vegetated environments, a pet can pick them up by walking or lying in a certain spot.
These mites are usually clustered on the dog’s head, ears, paws, and belly.
Skin lesions include erythema, papules, scabs, and hair loss. Some infected dogs may have intense itching that persists for hours or days, even after the larvae have left their bodies.
7. Scabies Pneumonyssoides
The canine condition known as Pneumonyssoides or nasal mites is a very particular type of mange. These mites (Pneumonyssoides caninum) only live in the nasal passages and cavities of dogs. Infection occurs through direct nose-to-nose contact, or indirectly.
Depending on the severity, the pet may experience sneezing, runny and/or bleeding nose, itchy face, loss of smell, difficulty breathing, coughing, and restlessness. The greater the infection, the more severe the symptoms.
It should be noted that some dogs have no symptoms.
When to go to the vet?
If you notice your dog scratching, shaking, or biting himself, but there are no signs of a flea/tick infestation, it’s best to see your vet as soon as possible. The pet may have been infected with mites. Like any other condition, all types of scabies are easier to treat if diagnosed early.
Keep in mind that many of the symptoms of canine mange can mimic other conditions, such as allergies and other skin infections. A vet will be able to tell for sure whether or not mange is the problem.
Do not attempt to treat the dog on your own without first consulting a professional. Several the different scabies look alike, which is why you can misdiagnose them. Administering the wrong treatment would not only not help, but could worsen the condition.
