Dog mites are tiny arthropods that reside on or within a dog's skin or hair follicles. They can trigger itching, inflammation, and hair loss. While not all mite cases are concerning, certain infestations can escalate into serious health issues. To aid in comprehending and averting a dog mite infestation, Sorrento Animal Hospital presents this comprehensive guide covering everything you need to know about mites on dogs.

Understanding the different types of mites affecting dogs

There are four distinct types of dog mites, each exhibiting noticeable symptoms and effects:

Sarcoptes scabiei Mites

Commonly known as canine scabies, these mites burrow into the skin, leading to increased itching, particularly around the groin and armpits. Additional symptoms include red skin and hair loss, potentially progressing to mange if left untreated.

Otodectes cynotis Mites

These ear mites reside on the surface of the ear, feeding on ear debris. Symptoms include ear scratching, vigorous head shaking, and the presence of a black or brownish-red crust in the ear.

Cheyletiella yasguri Mites

Found on the skin's surface, these mites cause cheyletiellosis, also known as walking dandruff. The name stems from the flakes resulting from a cheyletiella mite infestation, resembling dandruff.

Demodex canis Mites

Among the most common mites, demodex canis reside in hair follicles and are typically present even in healthy dogs. However, their population may become problematic if the dog's immune system is compromised, resulting in itching, inflammation, and potential mange development.

How do dogs get mites?

Dogs commonly acquire mites through various avenues of contact, primarily:

1. Interaction with Infected Dogs: Mites are frequently transmitted from dog to dog through direct contact in places like parks, animal shelters, or grooming facilities. Despite precautionary checks, mites often go unnoticed due to their minuscule size.
2. Environmental Contamination: Dogs may also pick up mites from contaminated environments, such as infested bedding or carpets. Reinfestation can occur through contact with surfaces harbouring mites, underscoring the importance of cleaning bedding and household areas following mite detection on a dog.

Recognising signs of mites in dogs

If your dog is persistently itching but doesn't have fleas, mites could be the culprit. However, detecting them isn't always straightforward. While some mites are visible to the naked eye, they're typically tiny - about one millimetre long - resembling small black, white, or red dots. Their round or oval-shaped bodies, akin to spider-like creatures with eight legs, are discernible only with a microscope.

Given their microscopic size, relying on symptoms indicative of a mite infestation is often more practical. Keep an eye out for signs such as excessive scratching, skin irritation, hair loss, or crusts or scabs on the skin. If you suspect your dog has mites, consult a veterinarian for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Recognising symptoms of dog mite infestations

Irrespective of the type of mite afflicting your dog, the symptoms can cause discomfort and distress. Here are some common signs of dog mites to help you identify their presence:

• Intense itchiness: Manifested through scratching, biting, licking, or rubbing against furniture.
• Scaly or crusty Skin: Visible signs of skin irritation.
• Inflammation and redness: Indicates an inflammatory response to mite presence.
• Sores: Lesions or open wounds on the skin.
• White flakes: Flakes resembling dandruff.
• Oily, smelly substance: Unpleasant odour and greasy skin.
• Hair loss: Areas of baldness or thinning fur.
• Lesions on the elbow and ankles: Common sites for mite-induced skin lesions.
• Raw skin: Skin that appears irritated, inflamed, and exposed.
• Head shaking and ear scratching: Ear mites may cause these behaviours.
• Black or dark brownish-red residue: Indicative of ear mite infestation.
• Obstruction of ear canal: Ear mites may lead to ear canal blockage.

It's important to note that some mite infestation symptoms can resemble other conditions like ear infections or skin allergies. If you suspect your dog has a mite infestation or mange (or allergies / infection), consult your veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Risks of untreated dog mite infestations

Failure to address mite infestations promptly can result in severe complications, including secondary skin infections, mange, and scabies. Mange, primarily caused by sarcoptic or demodectic mites, poses significant risks. Sarcoptic mite-induced mange, known as scabies, and demodectic mange, also termed red mange or simply mange, can afflict various types of dogs. Puppies, older dogs with inadequate diets, those with compromised immune systems, and neglected dogs are particularly susceptible.

Certain risk factors, such as stress, unhygienic environments, intestinal heartworms, and age, can exacerbate sarcoptic or demodectic mite infestations, making them harder to eradicate and more problematic.

Left untreated, mange or scabies can have dire consequences, potentially proving fatal. If you observe patchy skin on your dog's face or suspect mange, seek immediate veterinary attention to prevent further complications.

How to get rid of mites on dogs

Severe mite symptoms can lead to self-trauma, exacerbating the condition. Continuous scratching due to ear mites can damage the ear canal.

Additionally, dogs affected by ear mites may excessively shake their heads, potentially leading to an aural haematoma, characterised by swelling of blood vessels within the ear pinnae. These complications underscore the importance of prompt diagnosis and treatment of ear mite infestations to prevent further damage and discomfort for your pet.

Seek veterinary guidance

If you suspect your dog has a mite infestation, it's crucial to consult your veterinarian promptly. A vet will diagnose the infestation and recommend appropriate treatment, which typically involves topical solutions like dips, shampoos, or creams, along with oral medications if necessary. In cases of secondary infection, antibiotics or antifungal medications may also be prescribed. Additionally, discuss with our team at Sorrento Animal Hospital how your dog's diet and lifestyle may impact its immune system, as a balanced diet can bolster immunity against mites.

Sanitise your dog's environment

To complement treatment, thoroughly clean and disinfect your dog's bedding, toys, collars, and other belongings. Launder sheets, plush toys, rugs, and cushion covers that are used by your dog during the infestation. Keep the affected dog separated from other pets in a comfortable area. Practice good hygiene by washing your hands and changing clothes after handling or caring for the affected pet.

Implement preventative measures

Prevention is key to maintaining your dog's well-being. Rather than waiting for mite infestations, adopt preventive measures such as regular grooming, routine vet check-ups, and maintaining a clean living environment. These proactive steps can help prevent future infestations and promote your dog's overall health and happiness. When you adopt or rescue a stray dog, thoroughly examine it for signs of mites and mange. If the mange is advanced and there is hair loss or redness, visit a veterinarian as soon as possible.

Maintain your pet's hygiene and health.

Regular grooming

Keep your pet's coat, skin, and ears clean through regular grooming sessions. The frequency of baths depends on factors like breed, coat length, and lifestyle, but a general guideline is at least once every 2-3 months. Take care not to get water in their ears to avoid infections. Additionally, consistent brushing and trimming, especially for breeds with long hair, help maintain a clean coat.

Clean bedding

Wash your dog's bedding regularly to promote overall hygiene, regardless of mite symptoms. Clean bedding contributes to your pet's comfort and well-being.

Healthy diet

Boarding facility standards

Inform others

If your pet has an active mite infestation, inform friends and family to reduce the risk of spreading mites amongst dogs. Some mites are highly contagious, so awareness helps prevent further infestations.

Please consult our experienced team to discuss your concerns. We will help your dog make a full recovery.