Ask the Vet: My dog has mites, should I be worried?

Feb 17 • 1 minute read

Dear Dr. Sausen, I think my dog has mites should I be worried?

Everyone is concerned about their other dogs or even human family getting mites. Demodicosis is a condition commonly known as mange. Demodex are mites that live on the skin of dogs. When they proliferate (reproduce) is when it creates a problem. The reason why these mites increase in number is unclear. It is thought to have a possible genetic or immunologic disorder. Although all dogs naturally have these mites, demodex is not considered contagious to other dogs. This mite is also species specific so humans can’t get it either.

Some of the clinical signs that may be seen are:

Hair loss
Red skin
Multiple scabs on skin
Possible itchiness.

To diagnosis, a skin scrape needs to be performed in order to see the microscopic mite. Treatment involves either oral medication daily or weekly dips. Treatment can take several months and 2 negative skin scrapings are required before treatment is stopped. Sometimes a secondary skin infection or intestinal parasites are present, which will need to be treated appropriately.