English Toy Terriers can be susceptible to Demodectic Mange (Demodicosis) which is caused by the Demodex Mite, usually when they are puppies. This is usually mild and easily treatable. If you are concerned that your dog may have Demodicosis, seek advice from your Vet and ensure that you put in place an appropriate parasite prevention regime.
Many breeders will treat their puppies with Advocate (or an alternative parasite treatment that addresses Demodex) at the same time as they receive their first puppy vaccinations, and all ETTs should be treated regularly for Demodex as part of an ongoing parasite prevention regime.
- Causes of Demodectic Mange
- Types of Demodectic Mange
- Symptoms
- Diagnosis
- Treatment
- Prognosis
- Prevention
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Causes of Demodectic Mange
Demodectic Mange is caused by an overgrowth of Demodex Mites, a microscopic mite that is present in our lives all the time. The Demodex mite lives in the hair follicles and sebaceous glands of mammals (including humans), and are typically harmless. However, when a dog’s immune system is compromised or not functioning properly, the mite population can increase, leading to symptoms of mange.
- Demodex Mites – the Demodex mite is normally present in small numbers on a dog’s skin without causing problems. However, an overgrowth can occur when the dog’s immune system is weakened.
- Genetic Predisposition – certain breeds are more prone to developing Demodectic Mange, particularly those with compromised immune systems. Breeds like Doberman Pinschers, Shih Tzus, Bulldogs, Chihuahuas, Boxers, and Cocker Spaniels are more frequently affected.
- Immune System Dysfunction – Demodectic Mange often occurs in dogs with immature or compromised immune systems, such as puppies or dogs with underlying health conditions (like cancer, hypothyroidism, or autoimmune disorders). Adult-onset Demodex may indicate an underlying health issue.
- Transmission – Demodex mites are not contagious between dogs. They are passed from mother to puppy during nursing or close contact in the first few days of life. The condition is generally not transmitted through direct dog-to-dog contact.
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Types of Demodectic Mange
- Localized Demodicosis – the most common form and typically affects puppies under 1 year of age. It manifests as small, isolated patches of hair loss, usually on the face, around the eyes, or on the legs. These patches are often accompanied by mild scaling or crusting of the skin.
- Generalized Demodicosis – a more severe form of mange affects larger areas of the body and is typically seen in adult dogs. It is often associated with an underlying health problem that weakens the immune system. The skin may be red, inflamed, and infected, and the dog may experience significant hair loss, crusting, and scabbing. Generalized Demodicosis requires more intensive treatment and can be challenging to treat.
- Demodectic Pododermatitis – a form of Demodectic Mange that affects the paws. It often leads to hair loss, redness, and swelling of the paws, and is typically seen in older dogs with a weakened immune system.
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Symptoms of Demodectic Mange
- Localized Hair Loss – one of the first signs is small, round patches of hair loss. These patches are usually not itchy.
- Red or Inflamed Skin – the affected areas may become red, inflamed, and sensitive.
- Scaling or Crusting – you may notice flaking or crusting of the skin around the affected areas.
- Thickened Skin – in more severe cases, the skin may thicken and become leathery.
- Secondary Infections – if left untreated, Demodectic Mange can lead to secondary bacterial or fungal infections. This often results in more intense symptoms, including pus-filled lesions, odor, and severe discomfort.
- Itching (Pruritus) – while Demodectic Mange is usually not as itchy as other forms of mange (like sarcoptic mange), it can cause mild to moderate itching, especially if a secondary infection develops.
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Diagnosis of Demodectic Mange
To diagnose Demodectic Mange, a veterinarian will typically consider :
- Skin Scraping – the vet will perform a skin scraping procedure, using a scalpel blade to gently scrape the surface of the skin. The samples are then examined under a microscope to look for Demodex mites.
- Skin Biopsy – in some cases, if a skin scraping is inconclusive, a biopsy may be taken to help identify the condition more clearly.
- Other Tests – if generalized Demodicosis is suspected, the vet may run blood tests or other diagnostic tests to identify any underlying health conditions, such as thyroid problems or immune deficiencies.
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Treatment of Demodectic Mange
1. Localized Demodicosis (Mild Cases):
- Observation – in many cases, localized Demodicosis in puppies will resolve on its own as the dog’s immune system matures, usually by the age of 1-2 years. The vet may suggest periodic rechecks, but treatment is not always necessary for mild cases.
- Topical Treatments – in some cases, topical treatments like medicated shampoos or creams can help manage the condition and prevent secondary infections.
2. Generalized Demodicosis (Severe Cases):
For generalized or severe cases, more intensive treatment is needed and may include:
- Oral Medications:
- Ivermectin or Milbemycin Oxime – common antiparasitic medications used to kill the Demodex mites. They are typically given as oral medications.
- Afoxolaner (NexGard) – a newer treatment option in some cases, which can help kill mites and parasites.
- Topical Treatments – medicated shampoos (such as those containing benzoyl peroxide or lime sulfur dips) may be used to treat the affected areas, reduce inflammation, and prevent secondary infections. These are usually combined with oral medications for more effective treatment.
- Antibiotics – if a secondary bacterial infection is present (a common complication of generalized Demodicosis), the vet may prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection.
- Steroids – in some cases, corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation. However, steroids should be used cautiously, as they can suppress the immune system, potentially making the condition worse in the long run.
- Supportive Care – dogs with generalized Demodicosis may benefit from nutritional support, including omega-3 fatty acids, to improve skin health and immune function. Dogs with immune system dysfunction may require treatment for the underlying condition (e.g., thyroid issues or diabetes) to help prevent recurrence.
3. Long-Term Management:
- Follow-Up Visits – regular follow-up visits to the vet are important to monitor progress and adjust treatment as needed. In some cases, it may take months of treatment to fully resolve the condition, especially with generalized Demodicosis.
- Avoidance of Stress – stress can impact the immune system, therefor minimizing stressors and ensuring your dog is in a comfortable, low-stress environment is key to recovery.
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Prognosis
- Localized Demodicosis – most dogs with localized Demodicosis will recover fully without complications, especially if they are puppies.
- Generalized Demodicosis – the prognosis for generalized Demodicosis can vary depending on the severity of the condition and whether an underlying disease is present. Treatment can be successful, but it may take time, and recurrence is possible. In cases where the dog has an underlying immune disorder, treatment can be more challenging.
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Prevention is the best cure
English Toy Terriers should have a comprehensive parasite prevention plan that includes a treatment for Demodex Mites as well as fleas, ticks and worms. Speak to your vet to ensure that you have the right prevention plan for your dog.
As Demodectic Mange is linked to a dog’s immune system function, the best way to prevent it is to maintain a healthy immune system. Regular veterinary checkups, appropriate vaccinations, and good nutrition can help ensure that a dog’s immune system is functioning properly.
Demodectic Mange is a treatable condition, and with proper care and management, most dogs can recover fully, especially if the condition is diagnosed early and treated appropriately. If you suspect your dog has mange, it’s important to seek veterinary care promptly for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.