Dog with skin condition
Updated April 25, 2024 • 7 min read

Mange in Dogs: Symptoms, Types, and Treatment

Mange is a skin disease caused by mites. It can cause serious discomfort, hair loss, and skin damage if left untreated.

Types of Mange

Sarcoptic mange is highly contagious and causes severe itching. Demodectic mange usually appears when the immune system is weakened.

Recognizing Symptoms

Watch for scratching, hair loss, red skin, crusts, sores, odor, and irritated patches.

Diagnosis Process

Veterinarians diagnose mange using skin scrapings and microscopic examination.

Treatment Approaches

Treatment may include prescription antiparasitic medicine, medicated baths, antibiotics for infections, and cleaning the environment.

Home Care and Prevention

Wash bedding, clean grooming tools, maintain good nutrition, and keep up with regular vet care.

What are the signs of mange in dogs?+
Common signs include itching, hair loss, inflamed skin, and crusty lesions.
Is mange contagious to humans?+
Sarcoptic mange may temporarily irritate humans. Demodectic mange does not spread to humans.
How is mange treated?+
Veterinary treatment often includes prescription antiparasitic medication.