Demodectic mange in domestic dogs is an inflammatory skin disease caused by tiny mites of the Demodex canis species. It is also called demodicosis, demodex, red mange or follicular mange. These mites are too small to be seen with the naked eye. They normally are present in very small numbers in the hair follicles and sebaceous glands of healthy dogs. Sebaceous glands are those that secrete a substance called “sebum,” which is the oily secretion coming from sebaceous gland ducts that open into the hair follicles. Sebum is made of fat and skin debris and functions to lubricate and moisturize the skin. Demodectic mange develops when the affected dog’s immune system is suppressed, weakened or otherwise compromised such that it cannot keep the rise of these mites at bay.
Demodicosis in dogs is caused by tiny parasitic mites of the species, Demodex canis. These mites live deep inside the hair follicles and sebaceous glands of the skin of host dogs. Demodex canis mites are considered to be part of the normal flora of the skin of dogs and typically are present in small numbers without causing any noticeable symptoms. In fact, almost all puppies acquire these mites directly from their mothers within the first
Juvenile dogs with localized demodectic mange typically are not itchy (pruritic) and do not seem to be painful. They have mild patchy hair loss that usually appears on one or only a few places on their body. However, they do not seem to suffer at all as a result of the presence of the Demodex mites. In fact, other than the cosmetic changes in their appearance, they act and appear completely normal. When dogs develop
The most reliable way to diagnose demodectic mange is by taking multiple skin scrapings. Of course, the veterinarian will first get a history from the owner about the dog’s health and symptoms and then will conduct a thorough physical examination. Skin scrapings are just what they sound like: physical scrapings of the areas of patchy hair loss. The veterinarian will squeeze the affected areas to encourage the mites to come out of the hair follicles.
Demodicosis can be challenging to treat, under even the best of circumstances. The therapeutic goal is to resolve the hair loss, scaling, crusting, redness, rawness and other skin symptoms associated with the condition. The key to a good outcome is early identification of the problem and consistent treatment with oral and topical products. Many if not most cases of localized juvenile demodectic mange will resolve spontaneously as the puppy’s immune system matures, with or without