2. Red or Inflamed Skin
Look closely at:
- Belly
- Armpits
- Groin
- Ears
- Between toes
Signs include:
- Red patches
- Swollen skin
- Warm or tender areas
These areas are prone to moisture and bacteria.
3. Hot Spots (Acute Moist Dermatitis)
Hot spots appear suddenly and spread fast.
They look like:
- Red, wet sores
- Hair loss around the area
- Oozing or crusting
Dogs often won’t stop licking them, which makes things worse quickly.
4. Hair Loss or Thinning Fur
Unexplained hair loss can signal:
- Bacterial infection
- Yeast infection
- Allergic skin disease
If fur is falling out in patches, it’s time to investigate.
5. Skin Odor
A strong smell from your dog’s skin is not normal.
Common descriptions:
- Fungal
- Musty
- Sour
This often points to a yeast infection, especially in skin folds.
4 Common Causes of Ear and Skin Infections
Understanding the cause helps prevent future problems.
1. Allergies (Most Common Cause)
Dogs can be allergic to:
- Food ingredients
- Pollen
- Dust mites
- Mold
Allergies weaken the skin, making infections more likely.
2. Moisture and Poor Drying
Common triggers:
- Swimming
- Bathing without drying
- Rainy walks
Moisture creates the perfect environment for bacteria and yeast.