Mites in dogs do not cause any problems as long as their occurrence remains within the normal range. Unfortunately, the mite infestation in dogs can also increase so much that the dog shows symptoms of illness. A pathological mite infestation can be recognized above all by itchy and scratched skin areas. However, different types of mites also have different effects on the dog’s organism. You can find out here which types of mites infest the dog, how the infestation can be diagnosed and treated.
Diagnosis: How to recognize different types of mites in dogs
Autumn grass mite
The name of the autumn grass mite (also Neotrombicula autumnalis) reveals a lot about the stubborn beasts. They stay mainly in the grass and are more common in late summer. The red-orange pests nest on the paws, especially between the toes of the dogs. They also settle on the legs, the stomach, the lips, the bridge of the nose and the ears. The saliva of these mites acts like an allergen, which causes the dog to become very itchy.
In sensitive dogs, thick skin welts, lip edema, swollen eyes and ulcer-like changes can then occur. Even after the parasites have died, the itching may persist. This makes the open skin areas susceptible to subsequent infections. The autumn grass mite is also known under the names grass mite, autumn mite or autumn louse.
Ear mites
Ear mites are the type of mite that is transmitted the fastest. However, they settle mainly in puppies and younger dogs. An infested animal transmits the ear mite, also known as Otodectes cynotis. The annoying parasites in the ear lead to a significant inflammation. The four-legged friend is in pain and the affected animal’s body reacts by secreting a brownish, crumbly secretion. Some of the ear mites can even be seen with the naked eye.
Hair follicle mites
Hair follicle mites, also Demodex mites, are part of the normal skin flora of a dog and are usually not harmful. If too many of these parasites occur, one speaks of demodicosis. Demodicosis occurs primarily in young dogs. In the event of an illness, the dog loses fur and there are bald spots in the coat. This usually affects the head and neck, but the trunk and limbs can also be affected. In most cases, the symptoms subside on their own, with long-haired dogs this mite infestation may even be overlooked.
However, dogs suffering from a genetic defect are far worse affected. These dogs have no natural immune defenses against the mite species. The dogs are constantly plagued by bald spots and secondary infections until they are 18 months old. Under certain circumstances, blood poisoning by bacteria can lead to the death of the dog.
Predatory mites
In addition to dogs, predatory mites also attack cats and rabbits. These parasites are transmitted through contact with an infected animal, but will survive in the environment for at least 20 days. The little animals live on the surface of the skin and suck tissue fluid. The female predatory mites lay their eggs on the host. The larvae develop on the dog and within 5-6 weeks undergo development into the adult animal.
Grave mite
Grave mites are responsible for mange in dogs. They are also transmitted from one host to another, direct fur contact is not necessary. Grave mites cause an insatiable itching that the four-legged friends can hardly bear. The infestation of the grave mites usually starts on the head, but can quickly spread further. On the one hand, the severe itching is triggered by the female digging mites, which lay their eggs under the dog’s skin. On the other hand, the saliva and feces of the annoying parasite are responsible.
As the disease progresses, pustules and wheals increasingly form. It can go so far that the skin becomes horny. An unpleasant odor can also occur due to increased fat production. This type of mite infestation must be examined by a veterinarian. Without treatment, the poor four-legged friend will suffer until death.
How do you recognize mites in dogs?
A pathological mite infestation can be recognized above all by itchy and scratched skin areas.
The right treatment: How are mites treated in dogs?
As with the symptoms, the type of mite infestation determines the treatment. If you have any concerns, you should always consult your veterinarian and ask for advice.
Mites in dogs – autumn grass mites
Autumn grass mites are usually fought by the dog’s immune system and subside after a short time. Owners of a sensitive dog can use preparations from the drugstore, pharmacy or veterinarian to combat the parasitic infestation.
Ear mites
Ear mites are a matter for the vet. Ear mites and secondary infections require veterinary evaluation and treatment. After a thorough cleaning of the ears, the pests are killed. For this purpose, a substance is given into the ear canal, which consists of an antibiotic, acaricide (pesticide or biocide used to combat mites) and often also cortisone. In order to kill the mites and all their possible offspring, the emulsion must be used regularly for about 3 weeks.
Hair follicle mites
Hair follicle mites often lead to demodekiosis, if this only occurs locally, it usually subsides on its own. For supportive treatment, acaricides can be applied to the affected skin area. If the demodekiosis no longer only occurs locally, antibiotic therapy is essential to avoid secondary infections. If the entire dog’s body is affected, it should be identified why the dog’s immune system is so weak that demodekiosis could break out.
If puppies are affected by the nasty disease, the mother animal must also be treated, even if it shows no symptoms. After that, measures should be taken to strengthen the dog in general (deworming, optimizing housing conditions).
Predatory mites
Predatory mites are best treated with acaricides. In addition to the dog, the collar, bed and toys should also be thoroughly cleaned. In order to avoid a renewed infestation, it is advisable to eliminate the source of the pests.
Grave mites are also treated with acaricides. Since this mite species is highly contagious and can also survive outside of a host animal, both the dog and its environment and other contact animals must be treated consistently. The treatment takes place over a period of six to eight weeks so that the mites are killed in all phases of life. Four-legged friends with long and/or thick fur even have to be shorn before the treatment, otherwise the parasites lying under the skin cannot be killed.
What helps against mites in dogs?
Stubborn mites in dogs are best treated with acaricides. Basically, you should make sure that the dog’s immune system is strengthened, e.g. with omega-3 fatty acids.
Mite infestation: How can I prevent mites in dogs?
The be-all and end-all of prevention is the dog’s healthy and balanced diet and species-appropriate housing. The weaker the dog’s immune system, the more susceptible the four-legged friend is to parasites. In order to additionally strengthen the immune system, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids can be fed. The dose is always important! Drug prevention against Parasitem is not recommended. So that the dog does not become infected with mites, contact with stray animals should be avoided as far as possible.
For protection against grass mites, there are means to apply. Regular grooming can also keep mites in check. A healthy dog is a happy dog.
