Skin Conditions in Dogs: Vet-Recommended Care and Treatment

From an occasional scratch to persistent licking or patches of hair loss, your dog’s skin can reveal a lot about their health. 

While some issues are minor and easily managed at home, others may signal underlying allergies, infections, or even parasites.

This guide walks you through the most common dog skin conditions – what to look for, when to worry, and how to keep your dog’s skin in top condition. Every tip is vet-approved, practical, and designed to help you take quick, confident action.

Your dog’s skin is its largest organ and one of the first places where health issues show up. A healthy coat is smooth, shiny, and free of flakes or scabs. But when things aren’t quite right, you might notice:

• Bald patches
• Red, inflamed skin
• Flaky or greasy fur
• Constant scratching, licking, or rubbing

These changes may seem small, but they’re often the body’s way of flagging discomfort, inflammation, or immune responses.

Unlike humans, dogs can’t verbalise when something feels off. Instead, they show signs through behaviours like:

Excessive licking (especially paws or belly)

• Scooting or rubbing their body along the ground
• Scratching behind ears or at their sides
• Restlessness or irritability

Catching skin problems early can prevent them from escalating into painful infections or long-term conditions. Left untreated, even minor irritations can become chronic – leading to vet visits, antibiotics, or lifestyle changes. Regular skin checks and fast responses are key.

Flea allergy dermatitis is one of the most common causes of skin problems in dogs. It occurs when a dog has an allergic reaction to proteins in flea saliva. For sensitive dogs, even one bite can trigger intense itching, inflammation, and skin trauma from scratching. While fleas themselves may not always be visible, the allergic response can be severe.

Typical signs include:

• Red, inflamed skin near the tail base, belly, or thighs
• Scabbing or oozing sores
• Patches of hair loss
• Flea dirt (tiny black specks) in the coat

Should I see my vet?
Yes, especially if your dog is scratching constantly or has broken skin. Your vet can confirm flea allergy, prescribe effective flea control, anti-itch medication, and guide you on cleaning your home environment to prevent reinfestation.

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic allergic condition that develops when a dog’s immune system overreacts to environmental allergens such as pollen, mould spores, or dust mites. The condition tends to run in families and often appears in young dogs. Over time, the skin becomes more sensitive, leading to repeated flare-ups that cause discomfort and can affect quality of life.

Typical signs include:

• Persistent scratching or licking
• Red, thickened skin on paws, face, belly, or armpits
• Frequent ear infections
• Musty body odour

Should I see my vet?
Yes. Atopic dermatitis needs veterinary management. Treatment may include allergy testing, medication like Apoquel or Cytopoint, and medicated shampoos to reduce inflammation and itch.

Contact dermatitis happens when your dog’s skin reacts to something it has come into direct contact with. This could be a specific type of grass, a household cleaner, or even plastic bowls. The reaction is usually localised and shows up as redness or bumps where the skin has touched the irritant. Unlike food or seasonal allergies, this condition is more about surface-level exposure and often resolves quickly once the trigger is removed.

Typical signs include:

• Red, rashy or bumpy skin
• Affected areas on paws, muzzle, or belly
• Frequent licking or rubbing
• Sudden irritation after walks or new products

Should I see my vet?
If symptoms are mild and improve once the irritant is removed, home care may be enough. If the rash lingers or worsens, your vet may prescribe a topical cream or anti-inflammatory treatment.

Yeast infections tend to develop in warm, damp areas like the ears, paws, armpits, or skin folds. They are often secondary to underlying conditions such as allergies or poor skin barrier function. Dogs with droopy ears or lots of folds are particularly prone, as the lack of airflow creates a perfect environment for yeast to multiply. While not usually serious, untreated yeast infections can become chronic and uncomfortable.

Typical signs include:

• Greasy, scaly, or thickened skin
• Redness and itchiness in skin folds
• Strong musty smell
• Chronic ear infections

Should I see my vet?
Yes. Yeast infections require antifungal treatment. Your vet may recommend medicated shampoos or wipes, oral antifungals for severe cases, and diet changes to prevent recurrence.

Hot spots are painful, inflamed patches of skin that appear suddenly and spread quickly. They often start from licking or scratching a specific area and become moist, red, and infected. Triggers can include insect bites, allergies, moisture trapped under the coat, or even boredom. Dogs with thick coats, like Golden Retrievers or Labradors, are especially at risk during warmer months.

Typical signs include:

• Raw, red skin that looks wet or oozing
• A foul or sour smell from the affected area
• Sudden onset, often with visible hair loss around the lesion
• Constant licking or biting of the same spot

Should I see my vet?
Yes. Hot spots can worsen quickly and often need vet treatment. Your vet may shave the area to expose the skin, clean it thoroughly, and prescribe topical antibiotics or anti-inflammatories. Fast action helps prevent deeper infections and long-term skin damage.

Mange is caused by microscopic mites that live on or under the skin. There are two main types. Demodectic mange is usually not contagious and often affects puppies or dogs with weakened immune systems. Sarcoptic mange, also known as scabies, is highly contagious and can spread to other pets and even humans. Both types cause intense itching, hair loss, and skin damage.

Typical signs include:

• Severe itching and restlessness
• Bald patches or areas of crusty, scaly skin
• Redness, inflammation, and secondary infections
• Thickened skin in chronic cases

Should I see my vet?
Yes. Mange needs a confirmed diagnosis through skin scrapings or biopsies. Your vet will prescribe specific anti-parasitic treatments, often along with medicated shampoos and antibiotics if the skin is infected. In the case of sarcoptic mange, treating all animals in contact is essential to stop the spread.

Despite its name, ringworm is not a worm but a contagious fungal infection that affects the skin, hair, and nails. It spreads easily through direct contact or contaminated objects like brushes, bedding, or toys. Puppies, elderly dogs, and immunocompromised pets are more susceptible. Humans can also catch ringworm from infected pets.

Typical signs include:

• Circular patches of hair loss with scaly or crusty edges
• Red or greyish skin in the centre of lesions
• Brittle hair or broken fur shafts
• Itchiness may or may not be present

Should I see my vet?
Yes. Ringworm is highly contagious and should be confirmed with a fungal culture or UV lamp test. Treatment may include topical antifungals, oral medications, and environmental decontamination. Your vet can advise on cleaning protocols to prevent reinfection.

Dry, flaky skin in dogs can be caused by anything from cold weather and low humidity to poor diet or underlying conditions like hypothyroidism. Seborrhea refers to a condition where the skin produces too much oil or becomes too dry, often resulting in dandruff, itchiness, and a dull coat. Some breeds are more prone to it, especially those with longer or denser coats.

Typical signs include:

• White flakes on the coat or bedding
• Itchy or irritated skin
• A dull or greasy coat
• Thickened or cracked skin in severe cases

Should I see my vet?
If flakes are mild and seasonal, you can often manage it at home with omega-3 supplements or moisturising shampoos. If symptoms persist, worsen, or are paired with hair loss or skin infections, a vet check is recommended to rule out endocrine issues or allergies.

Lumps and bumps on your dog’s skin are common, especially as they age. While many are harmless fatty deposits or cysts, some can be more serious growths that need medical attention. Monitoring changes is key to catching problems early.

Typical signs include:

• Soft or firm lumps under or on the skin
• Changes in size, shape, or colour
• Bleeding, oozing, or ulcerated skin over the lump
• Discomfort when touched

Should I see my vet?
Yes. Any new, changing, or concerning lump should be checked by a vet. They may take a sample using a fine needle or recommend removal for biopsy. Not all growths are cancerous, but early intervention improves outcomes.

Performing regular skin checks at home is one of the best ways to catch problems early before they become major issues. You don’t need any special tools, just a few quiet minutes with your dog, good lighting, and a methodical approach.

1. Choose a calm time and setting
Pick a time when your dog is relaxed (after a walk or meal works well). Sit in a well-lit area so you can clearly see their skin and coat.

2. Start at the head and work your way down
Gently part the fur and inspect the skin underneath. Move slowly from the face to the neck, back, chest, belly, and down each leg. Don’t forget the paws, armpits, and groin area, as these are common hotspots for allergies and infections.

3. Look and feel for abnormalities
Check for:

• Redness or inflammation
• Scabs, sores, or crusty patches
• Flaky or greasy areas
• Lumps or bumps under the skin
• Excessive hair loss or bald spots
• Fleas, flea dirt, or ticks

4. Smell your dog’s skin
A mild "doggy" smell is normal, but foul or yeasty odours may indicate an infection, particularly in skin folds or ears.

5. Check ears, eyes, and tail area
Floppy ears are prone to yeast infections. Redness, bad smell, or excessive discharge from the ears or eyes could be early signs of trouble. The base of the tail can also be a hotspot for flea activity.

6. Monitor behaviour
If your dog constantly licks, chews, or scratches a particular area, that’s often your first clue something’s wrong, even if the skin looks normal at first glance.

Diagnosing skin allergies in dogs involves ruling out other conditions and identifying specific triggers. Vets start with a physical exam, followed by skin scrapings or laboratory tests to exclude infections or parasites. If food is a concern, a food elimination trial using a limited-ingredient diet helps isolate dietary causes.

For suspected environmental allergies, allergy testing may include blood tests or intradermal skin testing to detect sensitivities to pollen, dust mites, or mould (inhalant allergies). In cases of flea allergy dermatitis, an intensive flea bite prevention program can help confirm the diagnosis.

Once identified, some dogs may benefit from hyposensitisation vaccines, which gradually desensitise the immune system to allergens. Accurate diagnosis is key to long-term relief and effective treatment.

Nutrition plays a key role in maintaining your dog’s skin barrier and reducing inflammation. A poor-quality diet can lead to dry, flaky skin, excessive shedding, or even trigger allergic reactions. For dogs with ongoing skin issues, switching to a specialised diet may bring significant improvements.

Look for foods that are:

• Rich in omega-3 fatty acids (such as DHA and EPA) from fish oil to reduce inflammation
• Formulated with high-quality protein to support skin repair
• Fortified with skin-supportive nutrients like zinc, vitamin E, and biotin

Dogs with confirmed food allergies may benefit from hypoallergenic or hydrolysed diets, which eliminate common triggers like beef, chicken, dairy, or wheat. Always consult your vet before changing your dog’s food to address skin concerns.

Related reading: Best Dog Food for Skin Allergies in Australia (2025 Vet Guide)

Some dog breeds are more prone to skin problems due to their unique physical characteristics. Knowing your dog's breed-specific risks can help you take preventive steps and spot issues early.

Wrinkle-Prone Breeds

Skin folds trap moisture and debris, making these breeds especially prone to fold dermatitis and yeast infections. Regular cleaning and drying of folds is essential.

Common wrinkle-prone breeds include:

• Bulldogs
• Pugs
• Shar Peis
• French Bulldogs
• Neapolitan Mastiffs

Thick Coat Breeds

Breeds with dense or double coats can be at higher risk of hotspots, especially in humid climates or after swimming. Trapped moisture and poor airflow can lead to bacterial infections.

Examples of thick-coated breeds:

• Golden Retrievers
• Siberian Huskies
• Bernese Mountain Dogs
• Border Collies

Hairless or Fine-Coated Breeds

Dogs with little or no fur need extra protection against sun exposure and skin dryness. They are more prone to sunburn, flaking, and sensitivity from environmental factors.

Sensitive breeds include:

• Whippets
• Chinese Cresteds
• Xoloitzcuintlis (Mexican Hairless)
• Italian Greyhounds

Good daily habits can go a long way in preventing skin issues. Here are five vet-recommended tips to maintain your dog’s skin health:

1. Clean paws and undercarriage after walks
   Wipe off allergens, dirt, and pollutants that can irritate the skin or trigger flare-ups.
   
   
2. Use gentle, dog-specific shampoos
   Choose products designed for canine skin pH, especially if your dog has sensitivities.
   
   
3. Moisturise dry areas
   Use vet-approved balms or sprays to protect paws, noses, and other dry-prone spots.
   
   
4. Protect from sun exposure
   For light-colored or hairless breeds, apply pet-safe sunscreen and avoid peak sun hours.
   
   
5. Brush regularly
   Brushing helps distribute natural oils, removes debris, and allows early detection of skin issues.

Can I treat my dog’s dry skin at home?
You can often treat your dog’s mild dry skin at home with omega-3 supplements, a balanced diet, and dog-safe shampoos or moisturisers. Persistent dryness, however, may need a vet’s review.

Is itching always caused by fleas?
Itching in dogs isn’t always caused by fleas — allergies, parasites, infections, or dry skin can also trigger irritation. A vet visit helps confirm the true cause.

Do food allergies cause skin problems in dogs?
Food allergies can cause significant skin problems in dogs, including chronic itching, redness, and ear infections around the face, paws, and belly.

What’s the best shampoo for dogs with skin issues?
The best shampoo for dogs with skin issues is a vet-approved sensitive or medicated formula designed for canine skin. Avoid human shampoos or harsh detergents that can worsen irritation.

Are skin issues contagious between dogs or to humans?
Some dog skin conditions are contagious to other dogs and even humans. Ringworm and mange mites are common examples, so it’s best to confirm the diagnosis with your vet.

Skin conditions in dogs are more than just surface-level concerns, they can signal deeper health issues that need attention. By learning what to look for, keeping up with regular skin checks, and following daily care tips, you can help your dog stay comfortable, healthy, and itch-free. 

If symptoms persist or worsen, don’t wait to see your vet. Early diagnosis and proper treatment can make all the difference in restoring your dog’s skin health and quality of life.

This article was written by Dr. Jack Ayerbe