Mange in Dogs

Mange refers to a group of skin conditions caused by mites, tiny parasites in the arachnid family (specifically the Acari subclass), which is why mite infestations are sometimes called "acariasis." Some mite species are normal residents of a dog's skin, while others aren't supposed to be there at all. Left unchecked, any of them can lead to skin infections that become serious without treatment.

Two mite groups are responsible for the vast majority of canine mange cases: Sarcoptes species, which burrow into the skin itself, and Demodex species, which live in hair follicles.

Sarcoptic mange, also called canine scabies, is caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite, a microscopic, oval-shaped parasite that spreads easily between hosts. This same mite variant can also infest cats, pigs, horses, sheep, and other species. As the mites burrow through the skin, their movement triggers intense itching. Hair loss and crusting typically follow, often starting on the elbows and ears. The resulting scratching and biting can damage the skin further, making secondary infections common.

• Symptoms

  Sarcoptic mange causes severe itching that tends to build over several days, along with hair loss, redness, sores, and crusty scabs. In dogs, the ears, elbows, face, and legs are most commonly affected, and in severe cases, it can spread across the entire body. In humans, exposure to this mite can cause a temporary rash of red, itchy bumps resembling mosquito bites.

• Transmission

  Sarcoptic mange usually requires direct contact between hosts to spread. While the mites can survive off a host in the environment for several weeks, they remain capable of causing infection for only about 36 hours once separated from a host.

Demodectic mange, also called demodicosis or "red mange," involves the Demodex canis mite, a species that's naturally present on nearly all dogs. Puppies pick these mites up from their mother during nursing and close early contact. In most dogs, the immune system and normal grooming behavior keep this natural mite population in check, and many dogs live their whole lives without any issue. Problems arise when a dog's immune system is compromised or develops an abnormal reaction to the mites, allowing their numbers to grow out of control.

Demodectic mange is caused by the mites themselves proliferating beyond normal levels - typically due to immune dysfunction. Secondary bacterial infections (most often caused by Staphylococcus pseudintermedius) are a common and important complication of demodectic mange, but they're a consequence of the skin damage the mites cause, not the underlying cause of the disease itself.

• Localized demodectic mange

  Occurs when mites proliferate in just one or a few small, confined patches, usually on the face, creating a "polka-dot" pattern of scaly, bald spots. This form is common in puppies, and roughly 90% of cases resolve on their own without treatment.

• Generalized demodectic mange

  Affects larger areas of skin, sometimes the entire body, and becomes especially itchy if secondary bacterial infections develop. The skin may also take on a foul odor. This form can point to underlying issues like a compromised immune system, hereditary predisposition, or an endocrine disorder, and treatment approach often depends on the dog's age at onset.

• Demodectic pododermatitis

  Mange confined to the feet, often complicated by bacterial infection. It's one of the more stubborn forms to treat, and deep skin biopsies are sometimes needed to confirm diagnosis.

• Transmission

  Demodex mites transfer fairly easily between dogs through direct physical contact. In healthy dogs, this just adds to their existing natural mite population without causing disease - even in severe cases, isolating an affected dog usually isn't considered necessary. Transmission to humans or cats is very rare, since Demodex mites are largely species-specific.

• Symptoms

  Hair loss, bald patches, scabbing, and dry sores are typical. Secondary bacterial infections can make affected dogs significantly more uncomfortable and itchy. Other signs to watch for include itchy, bald patches around the mouth and eyes; itchy, bald patches on the body or legs that may spread further; and leathery or wrinkled-looking skin.

Your veterinarian will perform a physical exam and, if needed, take skin scrapings to examine under a microscope for mites. Deeply burrowed mites can be tricky to find, in which case your vet may lean more heavily on your dog's history and visible symptoms to reach a diagnosis.

• Localized demodectic mange

  Most common in puppies and dogs under 18 months old.

• Generalized demodectic mange

  Can run in families. Breeds like the Dalmatian, American Bulldog, and American Pit Bull Terrier appear more susceptible, and older dogs with an underlying illness are also at higher risk.

• Demodectic pododermatitis

  Old English Sheepdogs and Shar Peis appear particularly prone.

Younger dogs often recover fully from mange. Adult dogs, particularly with generalized demodectic mange, sometimes need longer-term management. Because generalized demodicosis is believed to have a hereditary component, affected dogs generally shouldn't be bred.

Whichever treatment path is used, follow-up skin scrapes every 2 weeks help track progress. Medication is typically discontinued after two consecutive negative scrapes, with one final scrape performed about 4 weeks later to confirm there's no recurrence.

• Clean bedding and collars

  Thoroughly clean or replace bedding and collars.

• Treat contact pets

  Treat all pets that have been in close contact with an affected dog.

• Limit exposure

  Keep your dog away from animals you suspect may be infected.

• Follow-up scrapes

  Schedule periodic skin scrapes to confirm the mites are fully cleared.