German Shepherd Skin Issues And Treatment Options
The German Shepherd is a multifaceted dog with a loving nature and extremely loyal temperament. They are incredibly smart and easily trained for a multitude of various jobs and tasks. They partake in a wide range of important jobs including guiding the blind, drug detection, police and military work, search and rescue, therapy and more. German Shepherds make brilliant companions and excellent guard dogs due to their protective nature. They are traditionally known for their beautiful black and brown furry coats but unfortunately the breed is susceptible to a variety of skin allergies that can lead to irritating and often painful skin issues. It is very important to recognize German Shepherd skin issues to make sure that you can appropriately treat them.
This article will cover all of the possible German Shepherd skin issues that your dog can face including environmental, food-related and genetic allergies.
Diagnosing Yeast Infection In Dogs
A veterinarian can confirm a definitive diagnosis through cytology or by culturing. Hair and skin samples can be taken from around the affected area and tested under a microscope to determine a yeast infection.
If the yeast infection is believed to be inside the ear, the veterinarian will use a device called an otoscope to look inside the ear canal. A sample may also be taken from in and around the ear to be examined under a microscope. This will help further determine if the infection is caused by yeast, bacteria, or even both.
What Are The Risk Factors For Ear Hematomas
A hematoma forming from a German Shepherd scratching ears excessively is usually caused by an underlying problem. Bacterial or viral ear infections, allergic skin disease, or even ear mites may be the reason. In addition, German Shepherd floppy ears may increase your GSDs risk of contracting German Shepherd ear allergies in this sense, changes in anatomy make German Shepherds prone to ear infections.
When you find your German Shepherd scratching ears and shaking head incessantly, you will want to treat this as soon as possible these are common German Shepherd ear infection symptoms.
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Types Of Fungal Infections In Dogs
If your dog is diagnosed with a fungal infection it could be either a systematic infection or a localized infection.
Systematic fungal infections affect your dog’s major body systems, whereas localized fungal infections are typically seen on your dog’s skin or external features.
Common Systematic Fungal Infections in Dogs
Systematic fungal infections go beyond your pup’s skin and invade your dog’s inner body systems. Your dog’s lungs, nasal passages, bone or eyes could be affected by a systematic fungal infection.
Aspergillosis
In dogs, Aspergillosis is a fungal infection that is caused by a number of different Aspergillus species which are found in soil all around the world. Aspergillus is responsible for two main types of infection in dogs:
Cryptococcosis
Blastomycosis
Localized Fungal Infections in Dogs
Fungal infections affecting your pet’s skin can be tricky to recognize since the itching and scratching which is a common symptom of these infections is often mistakenly believed to be the result of dry skin or flea bites. There are two common forms of localized fungal infections commonly treated by our Tucson veterinary dermatological specialists:
Dermatophytes
Fungal Dermatitis
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet’s condition, please make an appointment with your vet.
How Is Fungal Dermatitis In Dogs Diagnosed
Your vet may use any of these techniques to collect a sample from your dog so his infection can be diagnosed and treated:
Skin biopsy – The most invasive diagnostic test uses a biopsy punch to obtain a small piece of skin. However, this provides the most complete diagnostic data.
Cotton swab sample – The skin is rubbed with a moistened swab to collect yeast organisms. Impression smear – A microscope slide is pressed onto the skin to collect yeast organisms. Acetate tape preparations – A piece of clear tape is applied to the skin to collect yeast organisms.
Skin scrape – The skin is scraped with a blade so yeast organisms can be collected.
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How Can I Help Soothe My German Shepherds Sensitive Reactive Skin
Although your German Shepherd will try to resolve their discomfort on their own, their efforts often increase the risk of pain, inflammation, and infection. While youll find many over-the-counter treatments intended to help treat canine skin issues, theyre not all the same.
Vetericyn® is leading the at-home animal care market. Whether youre looking for a product to calm an itch, soothe irritation, or reduce the risk of infection, consider how the following Vetericyn® products could help your German Shepherd feel better fast.
Vetericyn Plus® Antimicrobial Hot Spot Spray
Licking, rubbing, biting, and scratching irritable hot spots can prevent healing. Delayed healing increases the risk of infection. Vetericyn Plus® Hot Spot Spray helps calm itchy, reactive skin. Since the product is made without alcohol, antibiotics, or steroids, you can use this spray as often as needed to keep your affected dogs hot spots and skin lesions in check.
Vetericyn Plus® Antimicrobial All Animal Wound and Skin Care
Vetericyn Plus® Antimicrobial Wound and Skin Care helps alleviate pain while cleansing, moisturizing, and reducing the risk of infection. The product is safe for all types of pets, and wont sting, burn, or stain. The advanced hypochlorous technology offers a powerful, non-toxic alternative to steroids and antibiotics and is completely non-toxic, even when ingested.
Vetericyn Foam Care® Medicated Pet Shampoo
How To Treat A German Shepherd Ear Infection
A German shepherd ear infection can be very uncomfortable for your faithful companion. Fortunately, its also relatively easy to diagnose and cure with a little good old-fashioned TLC of you, some antibiotics from your vet, and regular cleanings at home.
Here are some tips on how to identify the symptoms of a German Shepherd ear infection as well as the best ways to treat it.
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German Shepherd Allergies & Skin Allergy Guide
German Shepherds are a popular breed. And for good reason! They are characterized by not only their smarts, loyalty and courage, but also the thick fur coat that protects them. However, their coat makes them very susceptible to developing skin issues.
If you are a parent of a German Shepherd, stay informed by being knowledgeable about why they get skin allergies and what you can do for them.
Whether its paarsites like fleas, their food or other environmental irritants, there are steps you can take to help your shepherd live a more comfortable life and isnt that what its all about!?
Recommendation For German Shepherd With Yeast Infections
Dog Food AdvisorForumsDiet and HealthRecommendation for German Shepherd with yeast infections
- Ciro RMember
My 9 year old German Shepherd has battled allergies and yeast infections for many years, recently She began to develop infections in her armpits in addition to her normal ear issue. Shes been on all kinds of allergy meds that simply reduce the intensity but never solve the problem. I feed her Acana and Orijen mostly but I remembered when she was a pup she mostly ate raw and didnt have any issues at all. Does anyone have any recommendations for a good raw diet for a yeasty dog that isnt super expensive and that I dont have to make myself ?
Blaire SMember
Google BARF diet. You can buy frozen chicken legs and thighs, check around to see if you can find a local source for beef, lamb organ meats. If you buy a few lbs at a time many butchers will order for you, then you can package in small quantities for freezing. For a raw diet, you dont have to make anything, you just thaw a couple of days worth. A little planning and it gets easier. Ready made raw diets get expensive. A little research will go a long way!
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How To Tell The Difference Between Ear Mites And Yeast Infection
Yeast infections in dogs ears typically result in head shaking and rubbing, itching, odor, redness, and brown discharge. Ear mites in dogs have many of the same symptoms, however, there are a few slight differences. Ear mites cause a dark discharge from the ear that can be waxy or crusty. Ear mites are also barely visible to the naked eye, extremely itchy, and very contagious to other animals. If your dog is experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your vet so they can determine whether its a yeast infection or ear mites and the best option for treatment.
Treating A Systemic Yeast Infection
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Chlorhexidine 4%*Echinacea – Purple Cone Flowerboosts the immune systemyeast infectionsShould use 10 days on then off for one week, then start again, for the system to utilize it properly, and so that the body will not become accustom to it.Proprietary herbal blend:Standardized Echinacea root extract , Standardized Echinacea root extract 300 mg Echinacea purpurea powder 200 mg*Vitamin C Pure Radiance CPure Radiance CPure Radiance CThe Synergy Company*Add fresh garlic: fungal infection
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How Is Yeast Infection In Dogs Diagnosed
The vet will be able to diagnose the condition by running a few tests on your dogs skin. Hair plucks, skin scrapes or smears, very easy to take, are common techniques used to help identify any infectious agents, including yeasts, that could be contributing to the skin disease. These are analysed under the microscope to determine if the fungus responsible for the yeast infection exists in the sample, or whether there are any other bacteria, fungi or viruses that may be causing the symptoms.
How Can I Treat My German Shepherd Ear Bleeding
German Shepherd ear surgery is typically what will need to happen to properly cure and get rid of GSD ear hematomas. To drain out the fluid, your vet will need to make an incision in your GSDs ears, then tack them down afterward to ensure they heal properly. This type of German Shepherd ear surgery is typically done with your GSD under anesthesia.
If the underlying cause of the hematoma is German Shepherd ear allergies, your vet may need to prescribe a certain diet regimen and have your GSD undergo allergy tests to accurately pinpoint the cause of the hematoma.
On the other hand, your vet may need to start cleaning your German Shepherd ears if the ear hematoma is caused by ear mites. A German Shepherd ear cleaning solution will need to be used to fully rid your GSDs ears of the mites and will typically need a follow-up treatment of topical ointments for a short time afterward.
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Reasons Your Dog Might Stink And What You Can Do To Help
Some dogs smell worse than others but German Shepherds are not typically a stinky breed. Some dogs that may have more body odor include hounds, dogs that excessively drool, dogs with oily skin, and dogs with lots of wrinkles.
Unless your German shepherd has gotten wet, has been rolling in something smelly, or hasnt had a bath in ages, a good grooming and brushing will usually keep them and your house from smelling bad.
If your German shepherd seems to stink all the time, some common causes that can contribute to dog odor include:
Poor grooming
German shepherds have a thick double coat that requires continual grooming. If their coat becomes matted, it can collect dirt, grime, grass, skin oils, etc. If the dog isnt brushed regularly, it can collect moisture close to the skin, which can lead to a funky smell as well as fungal or bacterial infections.
Bathing
German shepherds dont require lots of bathing. A bath a couple times a year is all they need to keep their skin and coat healthy, unless they get obviously dirty. Too many baths can strip their delicate skin of natural oils, which offer a barrier of protection as well as conditioning. Giving too many baths can actually be the cause of dry, itchy skin.
Excessive licking
Skin inflammation
Bacterial infection
Yeast infection
Ear infection
Dermatitis
Hormone imbalance
Dental disease
Illness
Poor Diet
Treatment Of Skin Allergies
Medication is available for skin allergies. Temporary treatments provide relief from itchy skin and irritability. You can use Vaseline or coconut oil for that purpose. These solutions work for a short time only and you should not be seen as long-term fixes.
Antihistamines and corticosteroids are helpful in relieving allergic symptoms. Immunosuppressants are given in extreme cases with critical care. Antibiotics and antifungal medications are usually prescribed for secondary bacterial infections.
Allergy shots are also available for German shepherds. They help immunize dogs against allergens by slowly introducing allergens into their body. This procedure is termed immunotherapy.
Adding probiotics to your dogâs food can help him with skin inflammation and it also boosts the immune response in dogs.
Many topical shampoos with organic products are available in the market to provide relief from German shepherd skin allergies and help your canine friend feel better.
Topical creams and organic sprays are also available to provide a soothing effect to your dogâs skin.
If the skin condition gets worse, you should see your vet, especially if the fleas or ticks are the cause of the problem.
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German Shepherds With Skin Allergies
The versatile German Shepherd is one of the most popular and recognizable dog breeds. Eye-catching and impressive, this breed is smart and capable with an unmatched penchant for courage and loyalty. The German Shepherd has a wide range of capabilities, including military and police service, guide and therapy work, search and rescue, herding, drug detection, and competitive show and obedience. Despite the German Shepherds incredible aptitude and quality companionship, the breed is prone to allergies that often manifest in uncomfortable and painful skin conditions. Genetic, environmental, and food-related allergies can put a damper on your German Shepherds quality of life.
What Are Yeast Dermatitis
A naturally occurring yeast, MP is a genus of fungi that exists in both healthy animals and humans. If the yeast remains in small amounts and within a proper balance, the canine is at little risk for developing infection or skin changes. However, certain conditions may lead to a rapid proliferation of the yeast, thereby causing infection. The most vulnerable dogs are those with pre-existing health conditions or an underlying immune impairment. Another cause for rapid yeast proliferation is high heat and humidity. Basically, anything that challenges a dogs immune system or exacerbates stress places the canine at risk for yeast dermatitis.
Factors that increase a dogs susceptibility range from the simple to the complex. In all dogs, including those at optimum health, MP infections may occur during the high-humidity months of the year. In addition, if the dog has a congenital or infectious disease, the weakened immune system will likely enable the beginning of a yeast infection. Hormonal imbalances also open a dog to prolific yeast growth. In addition, increased levels of sebum and/or ear wax gives the perfect condition for a yeast dermatitis to occur. Dogs who are on a longer-than-normal course of certain medications, such as glucocorticoids or antibiotics, may be predisposed to an infection with this yeast.
Yeast Dermatitis Average Cost
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How To Tell The Difference Between Allergies And Yeast Infections
What many dog owners are unaware of is that allergies may be the cause of yeast infections. This is because many dogs with allergies have an imbalance in their immune system and may not be able to fight off yeast overgrowth. Furthermore, allergies can cause red, inflamed skin that is very itchy. When a dog is frequently itching and scratching their skin, there is an increased risk for introducing yeast species into the skin. Most yeast infections due to allergies present as skin abnormalities but there can also be systemic symptoms as well, such as walking in circles, head tilting, bladder infections and excessive drooling.
What Is Germanshepherd Dog Pyoderma
German Shepherd Dog Pyoderma is a rare condition. The last case I saw was in 2005! It is thought to be a consequence of the unusual immune system of German Shepherds and some cases have underlying allergy or hypothyroidism . Boo also suffers with mild atopy. Both hypothroidism and atopy can predispose dogs to getting superficial pyoderma, but this is classed as as deep pyoderma or furunculosis where the infection breaks out of the hair ffollicle and gets into the deeper layers of the skin. It is thought that in certain individuals there may be a heritable defect which results in an exaggerated tissue response to staphylococcal bacteria characterised by an inappropriate release of cytokines and other inflammatory mediators that causes severe tissue damage, hence the appearance of the skin with large ulcers. In Boos case the infection was further complicated by the invasion of the lesions with other bacteria, pseudomonas particularly can produce enzymes that destroys connective tissue.
We will be keeping an eye on Boo and double checking the thyroid levels now she is better. My last case form 2005 cleared up in a similar length of time and went on to live for years without a relapse.
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