As a professional dog groomer, it’s important to be aware of the most common skin problems in dogs. By knowing how to treat these conditions, you can help keep your clients’ dogs healthy and looking their best. In this article, we’ll discuss 15 common skin problems in dogs – and how to safely address/handle them!
So, keep reading to learn more about the types of dog skin conditions you may encounter in your grooming practice!
15 Types of Dog Skin Conditions You May Encounter as a Groomer
In your line of work as a dog groomer, you’ll likely come across skin problems in dogs. Here are 15 of the most common skin conditions you may need to troubleshoot…
Skin Problem #1: Allergies
Skin allergies, also known as atopic dermatitis or atopy, are a common skin problem in dogs. They can be caused by a variety of things, including dust mites, flea bites, pollen, mold, and even food. Symptoms may include:
- Excessive scratching or licking
- Hair loss due to itching
- Scabbing and/or bald patches on the skin
- Redness or irritation
Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the allergy but may include antihistamines, allergen-specific immunotherapy, avoidance of potential allergens, topical creams and ointments, or medicated shampoos.
How To Spot Skin Allergies In Dogs
Look for signs of excessive scratching or licking, as well as hair loss due to itching. Skin scabbing and/or bald patches on the skin can also be indicative of an allergic reaction. Additionally, look for redness or irritation on the skin as a possible sign of allergies.
What To Do As a Groomer If You Notice Skin Allergies
If you suspect your client’s dog may be suffering from allergies, it is best to advise that they speak with their veterinarian. Skin allergies can become more serious if left untreated. So, it’s important to seek professional help right away!
Not sure where your job description as a dog groomer ends and where a veterinarian’s begins? Learn the distinction between these two job roles, so you can assist your clients to the best of your ability!
Skin Problem #2: Infections
Skin infections are another common skin problem in dogs. They can be caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses. Symptoms may include:
- Redness
- Itching
- Rashes
- Hair loss and scabbing
- Hot spots (lesions caused by self-trauma)
Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the infection and may include antibiotics, topical ointments, medicated shampoos, and/or steroids.
How To Spot Infections In Dogs
Say you’re in the middle of grooming your client’s dog. Look for redness, itching, rashes, hair loss and scabbing. Hot spots can also be a sign of infection – these are lesions caused by self-trauma due to excessive scratching or licking.
What To Do As a Groomer If You Notice Skin Infections
If you suspect that your client’s dog may be suffering from a skin infection, it is once again best to advise them to seek help from their vet as soon as possible. Skin infections can spread quickly and become more serious if left untreated.
Skin Problem #3: Folliculitis
Folliculitis is an infection of the hair follicles, caused by bacteria or fungi. Often, this infection starts because the hair follicles have been damaged by scratching, excessive grooming, or an allergic reaction. Symptoms may include:
- Red bumps on the skin and/or pus
- Hair loss
- Itching
- Redness and inflammation around hair follicles
Treatment depends on the underlying cause but may include antibiotics, topical ointments, medicated shampoos, and/or steroids.
How To Spot Folliculitis In Dogs
Look for red bumps on the skin and/or pus, as well as as hair loss. Additionally, itching, redness, and inflammation around the hair follicles may also be present.
What To Do As a Groomer If You Notice Folliculitis
If you suspect that your client’s dog may be suffering from folliculitis, it’s important to let them know that they should contact their vet as soon as possible. This infection can spread quickly and become more serious if left untreated. For example, if left untreated, folliculitis can cause permanent hair loss and scarring.
Skin Problem #4: Mange
Mange is a skin condition caused by mites or parasites. If a dog has mange, what essentially happens is that their skin is invaded by these mites or parasites, which can cause a variety of symptoms including:
- Excessive scratching and biting
- Hair loss
- Itching
- Redness and inflammation
Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the infestation. That said, it may include topical ointments, medicated shampoos, and/or steroids.
How To Spot Mange In Dogs
While grooming your client’s dog, be on the lookout for excessive scratching and biting, hair loss, itching and redness or inflammation on the skin. You may also notice scabs or lesions caused by the mites burrowing into the dog’s skin.
What To Do As a Groomer If You Notice Mange
If you suspect that your client’s dog may be suffering from mange, it is best to advise them to seek help from their vet as soon as possible. Depending on the type of mite/parasite, certain treatments may be necessary. Skin problems caused by mites can spread quickly and become more serious if left untreated – such as resulting in permanent hair loss and scarring.
Skin Problem #5: Alopecia
Alopecia is the medical term for hair loss, and is a fairly common skin problem in dogs. It can be caused by a variety of things, including genetics, hormonal imbalances, allergies, parasites or even cancer. Symptoms may include:
- Hair loss (which may be localized or widespread)
- Itching and redness
Treatment depends on the underlying cause but may include antibiotics, topical ointments, medicated shampoos, and/or steroids.
How To Spot Alopecia In Dogs
Look for localized or widespread hair loss as well as itching and redness. Furthermore, hair loss may be patchy or in circular patterns around the affected area.
What To Do As a Groomer If You Notice Alopecia
By now, you probably know the drill: if you suspect that your client’s dog may be suffering from alopecia, it’s best to advise them to seek help from their vet. Skin problems caused by hormonal imbalances or cancer can spread quickly and become more serious if left untreated.
Additionally, it’s important to note that the most common cause of alopecia in dogs is allergies. So, give your client a head’s up that if this is the case, their vet may want to implement an elimination diet or prescribe antihistamines and/or steroids to alleviate symptoms.
Skin Problem #6: Fleas and/or Ticks
Fleas and ticks are two of the most common skin problems in dogs. Not only can they cause your client’s dog discomfort, but they can also spread parasites or diseases to people and other animals. Symptoms may include:
- Excessive scratching and biting
- Hair loss
- Itching
- Redness and inflammation
Treatment depends on how severe the infestation is but may include topical ointments, medicated shampoos and/or antibiotics.
How To Spot Fleas and Ticks In Dogs
Look for excessive scratching, biting and hair loss as well as itching, redness and inflammation around the affected area. You may also notice flea dirt (flea excrement) on your client’s dog.
What To Do As a Groomer If You Notice Fleas and/or Ticks
Advise your clients to seek help from their vet right away as infestations can quickly spread and become more serious if left untreated. Skin problems caused by fleas and ticks can lead to secondary bacterial infections which may require antibiotics. Furthermore, be sure to explain that preventive measures such as flea collars, topical ointments and medicated shampoos may be necessary for future prevention.
Finally, it’s important to note that fleas and ticks are not only a nuisance – they can also spread diseases such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. So, make sure your clients are aware of the risks involved in leaving the problem untreated!
Got a client whose dog has fleas/ticks? Here’s how to stop an infestation from spreading throughout your grooming salon!
Skin Problem #7: Ringworm
Ringworm (a.k.a. dermatophytosis) is a type of fungal infection that’s relatively common in dogs. Basically, ringworm is when a fungus grows on the dog’s skin, causing patches of hair loss, redness and/or scaling. It can affect both the skin and fur – and, importantly, is contagious to humans as well as other animals.
Symptoms may include:
- Hair loss (which may be localized or widespread)
- Itching
- Redness and inflammation
Treatment depends on the severity of the infection but may include antifungal creams, medicated shampoos, and/or oral medications.
How To Spot Ringworm In Dogs
Look for localized or widespread hair loss as well as itching, redness and inflammation around the affected area. You might also notice patches of dry skin or a scaly appearance.
What To Do As a Groomer If You Notice Ringworm
Advise your clients to seek help from their vet right away. Skin problems caused by ringworm can spread quickly and become more serious if left untreated. Moreover, it’s important to note that the most common cause of ringworm in dogs is allergies. So, give your client a head’s up that if this is the case, their vet may want to implement an elimination diet or prescribe antihistamines and/or steroids to alleviate symptoms.
Next, it’s important to note that ringworm is not only a nuisance – it can also spread diseases such as athlete’s foot and jock itch to humans. So, make sure your clients are aware of the risks involved in leaving this problem untreated!
Finally, you can let your client know that their vet may advise medicated shampoos afterwards (e.g. until the ringworm is gone). They can ask their vet for a list of medicated shampoos that they recommend, and then discuss those options with you afterwards. That way, during future grooming appointments, you’ll both be on the same page!
Skin Problem #8: Acral Lick Granuloma
Acral lick granuloma is a skin condition that occurs when a dog excessively licks or bites its paws and/or lower legs. Over time, the area can become raw, red, inflamed and infected. It’s important to note that this condition is not contagious but it can cause significant discomfort for your client’s pup.
Symptoms may include:
- Excessive licking or biting at the paws and/or lower legs
- Redness and inflammation
- Infection (which can lead to pus-filled sores, swelling, etc.)
How To Spot Acral Lick Granuloma In Dogs
Look for excessive licking or biting of the paws and/or lower legs as well as redness and inflammation around the affected area. You might also notice pus-filled sores, swelling, or other signs of infection.
What To Do As a Groomer If You Notice Acral Lick Granuloma
First, advise your client to seek help from their vet right away. Skin problems caused by acral lick granuloma can spread quickly and become more serious if left untreated. Moreover, it’s important to note that the most common cause of this condition is boredom or stress (often as a result of being confined in one place for too long). So, give your client a heads up that if this is the case, their vet may want to implement behavior modification and/or environmental enrichment programs.
Next, it’s important to note that acral lick granuloma can be difficult to treat. So, make sure your clients are aware of the risks involved in leaving this problem untreated!
Finally, you can let your client know that their vet may advise medicated shampoos (e.g. until the condition is resolved). They can ask their vet for a list of medicated shampoos that they recommend, and then discuss those options with you afterwards. That way, during future grooming appointments, you can ensure to use the right shampoo when bathing them.
Skin Problem #9: Hot Spots / Acute Moist Dermatitis
Hot spots, also known as acute moist dermatitis, are painful and itchy skin lesions that often develop rapidly over a short period of time. They are typically caused by an underlying skin condition such as allergies, infections, or parasites – and they can spread quickly if left untreated.
Symptoms may include:
- Rapidly developing skin lesions
- Itching and pain around the affected area
- Redness and inflammation
How To Spot Hot Spots in Dogs
Look for rapidly developing skin lesions, itching, pain and redness around the affected area. You might also notice pus-filled sores, swelling, or other signs of infection.
What To Do As a Groomer If You Notice Hot Spots
Hot spots are definitely something that should be seen by your client’s vet right away. Skin problems caused by hot spots can spread quickly and become more serious if left untreated. It’s also important to note that the most common cause of this condition is allergies or parasites (often as a result of being confined in one place for too long). If this is the case, their vet may want to implement behavior modification and/or environmental enrichment programs.
Again, you can let your client know that their vet may advise medicated shampoos (e.g. until the condition is resolved). If they ask for a list of medicated shampoos that the vet recommends, you can discuss those options with them afterwards. That way, during future grooming appointments, you can ensure to use the right shampoo when bathing them.
Finally, it’s important to note that hot spots can be difficult to treat. So, make sure your clients are aware of the risks involved in leaving this problem untreated!
Skin Problem #10: Yeast Infections
Earlier, we discussed infections – but yeast infections are a bit different. Yeast infections occur when there is an overgrowth of yeast on the skin, resulting in redness and inflammation (often accompanied by an unpleasant smell). Most commonly, yeast infections in dogs will occur on their feet, armpits, and ears – but they can also occur on other parts of the body.
Symptoms may include:
- Redness and inflammation around the affected area
- Itching and/or burning sensations
- A foul odor
How To Spot Yeast Infections in Dogs
Look for redness, inflammation and a foul odor around the affected area. You might also notice that your client’s dog seems to be experience itching and/or burning sensations. For example, if you’re in the middle of grooming them and they start to squirm or try and scratch the affected area, then it’s likely a sign of yeast infection.
What To Do As a Groomer If You Notice Yeast Infections
Yeast infections can be difficult to treat, so it’s important that your client visits the vet and gets an accurate diagnosis. The vet may recommend medicated shampoos, antifungal creams, or even medications depending on the severity of the infection.
Again, if their vet advises medicated shampoos (e.g. until the condition is resolved), you can then ensure that during future grooming appointments, you use the right shampoo when bathing them.
Once the infection is gone, you may also want to discuss potential ways for preventing future yeast infections with your clients. For example, they may need to change their dog’s diet or environment in order to prevent the overgrowth of yeast on their skin. Additionally, you can also remind them to not use any oils or creams that could potentially worsen the severity of the infection!
Skin Problem #11: Dry Skin
While dry skin isn’t necessarily a common occurrence in dogs, it can still be an issue – and one that you should watch out for as a professional dog groomer. Dogs with dry skin may experience itching or irritation around the affected area, which can lead to further complications if left untreated.
Symptoms may include:
- Itching and/or flaking of the skin
- Dryness and discoloration around the affected area
How To Spot Dry Skin in Dogs
Look for signs of itching or irritation around the affected area. You might also notice that their skin seems to be unusually dry, or there’s a visible discoloration. Additionally, your clients may also report that their dog is frequently licking or scratching the affected area.
What To Do As a Groomer If You Notice Dry Skin
If you’re seeing signs of dry skin, it’s important to advise your clients to visit their vet and get an accurate diagnosis. The vet may recommend special shampoos and conditioners that can help soothe the affected area, as well as ointments or supplements that can help improve their dog’s skin health.
Also, make sure to recommend your clients use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner when bathing their dog. This will help soothe any itchy sensations and restore hydration to their skin!
Skin Problem #12: Dandruff
Dandruff is another potential skin issue that you should watch out for as a professional dog groomer. This particular problem occurs when the skin becomes dry and flaky, resulting in white or gray flecks on their fur.
Symptoms may include:
- White/gray flecks on their fur
- Dryness and flakiness of the skin
- Itching or irritation around the affected area
How To Spot Dandruff in Dogs
Look for white or gray flecks on their fur – this is usually a sign that they have dandruff. Additionally, you may also notice dryness and flakiness of the skin, as well as itching or irritation around the affected area.
What To Do As a Groomer If You Notice Dandruff
If you’re seeing signs of dandruff, this is something you can help assist your client with during future grooms. You can suggest special shampoos and conditioners that will help soothe the affected area, as well as dietary or supplement changes that may be necessary to help improve their dog’s skin health. Additionally, remind your clients to brush their dog regularly and provide a humidifier in the home if necessary!
That said, you’ll still want to advise your clients to visit their vet and get an accurate diagnosis. After all, the vet may recommend special shampoos or conditioners that can help restore moisture to their dog’s skin and reduce any itching or irritation.
Skin Problem #13: Tumors
Tumors aren’t a common occurrence in dogs, but they can still be an issue that you may encounter as a professional dog groomer. Skin tumors may occur in a variety of shapes and sizes, and they absolutely will require special attention from your clients’ vet.
Symptoms may include:
- Visible lumps or bumps on the skin
- Itching or pain around the affected area
How To Spot Skin Tumors in Dogs
Look for any visible lumps or bumps on their skin. Additionally, your clients may also report that their dog is frequently licking or scratching the affected area, which can be a sign of itching or pain.
What To Do As a Groomer If You Notice Skin Tumors
If you’re seeing signs of skin tumors, it’s important to advise your clients to visit their vet ASAP and get an accurate diagnosis. Skin tumors may require special treatment from their vet, such as surgery or medication. Additionally, remind your clients that their dog may need additional care and monitoring following any treatment, depending on the type of tumor their dog has.
That said, as a professional dog groomer, you can help keep an eye out for any changes in the affected area and advise your clients if necessary. Skin tumors may require additional visits to the vet and follow-up care from both yourself and your clients!
Skin Problem #14: Lupus
Lupus is a rare skin condition that affects dogs. But again, it’s still something you should be aware of as a professional dog groomer. This particular issue occurs when the body’s immune system attacks its own cells, resulting in sores or lesions on their skin.
Symptoms may include:
- Sores or lesions on the skin
- Red, inflamed patches of skin
- Itching or pain around the affected area
How To Spot Skin Lupus in Dogs
Look for sores or lesions on their skin. Additionally, you may also notice red, inflamed patches of skin as well as itching or pain around the affected area.
What To Do As a Groomer If You Notice Skin Lupus
If you’re seeing signs of skin lupus, this is something that your clients’ vet will need to address. Skin lupus may require special treatment from their vet, such as medications or topical ointments to help reduce symptoms. Additionally, remind your clients that their dog may need additional care and monitoring following any treatment.
As a professional dog groomer, you can help keep an eye out for any changes in the affected area and advise your clients if necessary. Skin lupus may require additional visits to the vet and follow-up care from both yourself and your clients!
Skin Problem #15: Anal Sac Disease
Anal sac disease is a common skin issue in dogs. It occurs when the anal glands become impacted or infected, causing discomfort and irritation around the affected area.
Symptoms may include:
- Redness or swelling of skin near the anus
- Itching or pain around the affected area
- A foul-smelling odor around the anus
How To Spot Skin Anal Sac Disease in Dogs
While grooming the dog’s sanitary areas, look for redness or swelling of skin near the anus. Additionally, you may also notice itching or pain around the affected area as well as a foul-smelling odor.
What To Do As a Groomer If You Notice Skin Anal Sac Disease
If you’re seeing signs of skin anal sac disease, it’s important to advise your clients to visit their vet ASAP and get an accurate diagnosis. Skin anal sac disease may require special treatment from their vet, such as medications or antibiotics. Additionally, remind your clients that their dog may need additional care and monitoring following any treatment, depending on the severity of the issue.
As your client’s dog groomer, you can still help keep an eye out for any changes in the affected area and advise your clients if necessary. Skin anal sac disease may require additional visits to the vet, as well as follow-up care from both yourself and your clients!
Skin Problems in Dogs: Final Thoughts
As a professional dog groomer, you should always be aware of the common skin problems that may affect your clients’ pets. Skin issues can range from minor to severe and require special treatment from their vet. Additionally, it’s important to advise your clients about any changes you notice in their pet’s skin and suggest they speak with their vet for further care.
By staying up to date on common skin problems in dogs, you can better serve your clients and help keep their furry friends safe!
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