Yeast Dermatitis in Dogs

Yeast Dermatitis in Dogs - Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, Recovery, Management, Cost

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 dog’s immune system or exacerbates stress places the canine at risk for yeast dermatitis.  

Factors that increase a dog’s 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 (a waxy substance that lubricates the skin and coat) 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.

While yeast dermatitis can occur in dogs of all ages and breeds, some breeds have increased susceptibility. Basset Hounds, Cocker Spaniels, English Setters, Maltese, German Shepherds and Shih Tzus are all examples of breeds that are predisposed to yeast dermatitis.

Malassezia pachydermatis (MP) is an ever-present yeast commonly found in dogs around the nose, mouth, ears, anus, anal sacs, vagina, armpits, between the toes (interdigital) and in nail beds. As part of the normal microflora, MP is found both on the skin surface and in the ear canals of dogs.

Yeast Dermatitis Average Cost

From 423 quotes ranging from $200 - $500

Average Cost

$250

Wag Compare logo

Get a free pet insurance quote in less than 60 seconds!

Easily compare quotes from the most trusted pet insurance companies in the United States.

Get a quote

background

Symptoms of Yeast Dermatitis in Dogs

  • Chronic itchy skin, full body or localized
  • Increased sebum production, leading to a “greasy” looking coat
  • Scaly skin
  • Foul odor from body and ears
  • Constant licking of paws
  • Hair loss
  • Redness
  • Face scratching
  • Hyperpigmentation
  • Thickening of the skin 
  • Ear infection

Causes of Yeast Dermatitis in Dogs

  • Hormonal imbalance, such as hypothyroidism
  • Breed susceptibility
  • Underlying disease, such as 
  • Immune disorders
  • Food allergies
  • Environmental allergies
  • Flea allergies
  • Bacterial dermatitis
  • Excess heat and humidity
  • Stress

Diagnosis of Yeast Dermatitis in Dogs

The most reliable and simple way to diagnose a yeast dermatitis is a positive identification of the organism under a microscope. A veterinarian will obtain samples of the infected skin by scraping and/or swabbing on skin sites or in the ear canal. Samples may also be obtained by using transparent tape. Since MP is present even on healthy animals, diagnosis may best rely on an animal’s response to topical treatment.

Any underlying disease condition must be determined and isolated to proceed with the best treatment.

Treatment of Yeast Dermatitis in Dogs

To best treat yeast dermatitis, treatment usually involves a combination of systemic and topical therapy.

Systemic

For dogs with severe cases, or in those that are resistant to topical treatment, oral drugs may be prescribed. As always, these drugs must be administered per a veterinarian’s treatment plan, usually lasting one to two weeks maximum, because of potentially dangerous side effects.

Topical

Your veterinarian can guide you toward the best shampoo for your pet. Shampoos containing benzoyl peroxide and sulfur and chlorhexidine shampoos (1% or stronger) remove excess oil and lipids (fats) from the skin. In some dogs, Selsun Blue shampoo has proven effective; however, this product can irritate dogs with particularly raw skin. 

The veterinary caregiver will always prescribe a topical ointment to be applied directly to smaller infected areas which will provide relief from the irritation and itch. Your veterinarian will instruct on how to clean your pet’s ears, which may become infected due to the yeast.

Petted logo

Worried about the cost of treating your pet's symptoms?

Pet Insurance covers the cost of many common pet health conditions. Prepare for the unexpected by getting a quote from top pet insurance providers.

Get a quote

background

Recovery of Yeast Dermatitis in Dogs

The good news is that yeast dermatitis is easily treatable and rarely places your dog at risk for long-term health consequences. While undergoing the flare-up, your dog will constantly scratch and even bite himself to assuage the itchy skin. With treatment, the itching will subside, making your pet more comfortable. Without treatment, further stress may develop, leading to other health concerns and severe infections. Chronic scratching may exacerbate the dermatitis, which also places your pet at risk for further infection and slow healing. With the aid of your veterinary team and a consistent treatment protocol being followed by you, this condition is manageable.

Yeast Dermatitis Average Cost

From 423 quotes ranging from $200 - $500

Average Cost

$250

arrow-up-icon

Top

Yeast Dermatitis Questions and Advice from Veterinary Professionals

dog-breed-icon

American blue nose terrier

dog-name-icon

dog-age-icon

13 years

thumbs-up-icon

13 found this helpful

thumbs-up-icon

13 found this helpful

My pet has the following symptoms:
Itchy Fur A Bit Oily No Rash Some Small Bumps
Want to relive his discomfort selsom blue maybe?

Feb. 19, 2021

Answered by Dr. Linda S. MVB MRCVS

13 Recommendations

Itchy skin with bumps can have several causes including parasites, a bacterial infection, a yeast infection, allergies etc. A vet visit is best to get a diagnosis (via e.g. a skin scrape and swab) so we can give the most appropriate treatment. The vet can also provide some strong anti itch medicine to break the itch scratch cycle. He is a beauty by the way!

Feb. 19, 2021

Was this question and answer helpful?

Yeast Dermatitis Average Cost

From 423 quotes ranging from $200 - $500

Average Cost

$250

Wag Compare logo

Get a free pet insurance quote in less than 60 seconds!

Easily compare quotes from the most trusted pet insurance companies in the United States.

Get a quote

background
Need pet insurance?
Need pet insurance?

Learn more in the Wag! app

Five starsFive starsFive starsFive starsFive stars

43k+ reviews

Install


© 2024 Wag Labs, Inc. All rights reserved.


© 2024 Wag Labs, Inc. All rights reserved.