Have you noticed a foul smell coming from your dog? Do they have greasy or thick skin? It is possible your dog may have a yeast infection. But what causes a yeast infection in dogs? How does your dog get it? What are the signs to look for to see if your dog has a yeast infection? How is a yeast infection in dogs treated?
This post will explore what a yeast infection is in dogs, as well as answer how your dog gets it, signs and symptoms to look for, and how to treat it.
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Disclaimer: This post is meant to be informative and should not be taken as medical advice. Talk to your veterinarian regarding any health concerns you may have for your dog.
What Is Yeast?
To understand what a yeast infection is, it is important to know what yeast is. Yeast is a microscopic fungi. There are hundreds of varieties of yeast that exist. In order for yeast to thrive, it needs a warm, moist place to grow.
What Is A Yeast Infection In Dogs?
All dogs have a certain amount of yeast that is on their skin. Sometimes, this yeast will grow abnormally on their skin. This is known as a yeast infection.
What Causes Yeast To Grow On A Dog?
When yeast starts to grow abnormally on a dog, there is usually a reason this is happening. Other health conditions your dog has may be to blame. This can include:
- Underlying health issues.
- Allergies either to a specific food or to something in the environment.
- Hormone levels being off.
- Diseases that cause a suppression of the immune system.
What Are Signs And Symptoms Of A Yeast Infection In Dogs?
Signs and symptoms of a yeast infection in your dog can include:
- Red, itchy skin.
- Skin irritation.
- A sweet or musty odor.
- Skin that is thick and/or discolored.
- Greasy skin.
- Brown discharge coming from the nail beds.
- Hair loss.
What Are Common Areas On A Dog Where Yeast Infections Develop?
A yeast infection can occur anywhere on your dog’s skin, but is more commonly found on:
Folds of the skin
Due to the nature of some dog’s makeup, they may have excess folds of skin on their face or bodies. If these areas are not cleaned properly, yeast can grow in these areas.
Ears
Dogs that swim a lot are more likely to develop a yeast infection in their ears.
Paws
Paws are prone to develop yeast infections, especially between the toes. This can happen again if your dog swims a lot, but also if your dog has wet paws. Excessive licking of the paws can also lead to the development of a yeast infection.
Are There Certain Breeds Of Dogs That Are More Prone To Yeast Infections?
There are several breeds of dogs that are more prone to others to develop a yeast infection. These include:
- Australian Terrier.
- Bassett Hound.
- Chihuahua.
- Cocker Spaniel.
- Dachshund.
- Lhasa Apso.
- Maltese.
- Poodle.
- Shetland Sheepdog.
- Silky Terrier.
- West Highland White Terrier.
- Wrinkly Breeds.
Are Yeast Infections In Dogs Contagious?
Yeast infections in dogs are not contagious to other dogs, nor to humans.
What Foods Cause Yeast Infections In Dogs?
There are not any particular foods that have proven to cause yeast infections in dogs.
How Do I Treat My Dog’s Yeast Infection?
After being evaluated by your veterinarian, you may opt to try one or more of the treatments available.
Topically
Most yeast infections can be treated topically. This would include using a spray, wipe, or cream. You may also want to try an antifungal shampoo that treats yeast, which can be used several times per week.
When treating your dog topically for a yeast infection, you will want to look for specific ingredients that treat yeast on your dog. These ingredients include:
- Chlorhexidine.
- Miconazole.
- Ketoconazole.
Topical treatments can include one of these ingredients or a combination of them.
These can be found at:
Orally
If your dog’s yeast infection is particularly difficult to treat and is not responding to topical treatments, your veterinarian may decide oral medication is necessary. Examples of antifungal medication your vet could prescribe include:
- Ketoconazole.
- Fluconazole.
- Itraconazole.
These medications would be available by prescription only through your veterinarian.
While yeast on your dog is normal, an overgrowth of yeast is not. A yeast infection in dogs can occur anywhere on the skin and is more likely to develop as a result of an underlying health condition. There are several treatment options available that range from medicated wipes and creams, to shampoos used a few times per week, to oral medications. It is important to note that yeast infections are not contagious and is a treatable condition.
Please check out our other posts on Health, Indoor, Outdoor, and Travel accessories for your dog, as well as Reviews of various products and travel destinations.