Sandra Carson 
Mange in Dogs (Demodectic & Sarcoptic) : A Complete GuideMange in Dogs (Demodectic & Sarcoptic) : A Complete Guide
Mange in Dogs: Demodectic & Sarcoptic - Complete Guide
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That incessant scratching, patchy fur loss, and irritated skin on your beloved dog could point to mange, a skin disease caused by microscopic mites.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about mange in dogs—from recognizing the different types and symptoms to understanding effective treatment options and prevention strategies.
Keep reading to discover how to identify and manage this uncomfortable condition. Your attention to this guide could provide your canine companion with much-needed relief.
What is Mange in Dogs?
Mange is a skin disease caused by microscopic mites found in the hair follicles of dogs. These mites cause dogs to feel extremely itchy and uncomfortable, leading to various skin problems.
Did You Know?
All dogs have a small number of Demodex mites living harmlessly on their skin - they're part of the normal skin flora. Problems only occur when these mites multiply out of control due to immune system issues.
Key characteristics of mange in dogs include:
- Parasitic Origin: Caused by microscopic mites (either Demodex or Sarcoptes)
- Skin Inflammation: Leads to redness, irritation, and discomfort
- Hair Loss: Often results in patchy or widespread alopecia
- Variable Contagiousness: Depends on the type of mange
- Secondary Infections: Often leads to bacterial or yeast infections from scratching
How Mange Develops
The development of mange depends on the type of mite involved:
- Demodectic mange: Occurs when naturally occurring mites overpopulate due to immune system weakness
- Sarcoptic mange: Caused by infestation with highly contagious scabies mites acquired from other animals
- Both types cause intense itching as the mites irritate the skin
- Scratching damages the skin barrier, allowing secondary infections
- Without treatment, the condition can worsen and spread
The severity of mange varies between dogs, with some showing mild symptoms and others experiencing severe skin disease. The condition can be localized to small areas or become generalized across the body.
Types of Mange in Dogs
There are two main types of mange that affect dogs, each caused by different mites with distinct characteristics, transmission methods, and treatment approaches.
Demodectic vs. Sarcoptic Mange
1 Demodectic Mange (Red Mange)
Caused by Demodex canis, Demodex injai, or Demodex cornei mites that normally live in hair follicles. Problems occur when mites multiply excessively due to immune system issues.
Key characteristics:
- Not contagious between dogs or to humans
- Most common in puppies with immature immune systems
- Can occur in adults with weakened immune systems
- Often begins on the face, especially around the eyes
2 Sarcoptic Mange (Canine Scabies)
Caused by Sarcoptes scabiei mites that burrow into the skin. These mites are highly contagious and cause intense itching due to allergic reaction to mite proteins and feces.
Key characteristics:
- Highly contagious to other dogs and humans
- Causes severe itching that begins suddenly
- Often affects elbows, ears, abdomen, and hocks first
- Can spread rapidly through direct contact
Comparison of Mange Types
| Characteristic | Demodectic Mange | Sarcoptic Mange |
|---|---|---|
| Causative Mite | Demodex canis (and related species) | Sarcoptes scabiei |
| Contagious | No - not contagious | Yes - highly contagious |
| Typical Age Affected | Puppies (under 18 months) or immunocompromised adults | All ages |
| Transmission | Mother to puppy during nursing | Direct contact with infected animals or environments |
| Primary Locations | Face, around eyes, forelimbs | Ears, elbows, hocks, ventrum |
| Itching Intensity | Mild to moderate | Severe, intense |
| Zoonotic Potential | No - cannot spread to humans | Yes - can temporarily affect humans |
Important Note
It's crucial to correctly identify the type of mange because they have different causes, treatments, and prognoses. Demodectic mange is not contagious and is often related to immune system function, while sarcoptic mange is highly contagious and requires isolation and treatment of all exposed animals. Using the wrong treatment approach can prolong your dog's discomfort and potentially allow the condition to worsen.
Symptoms and Signs of Mange
Symptoms of mange can range from mild hair loss to severe skin damage. The clinical presentation depends on the type of mange, the dog's immune status, and the duration of the condition.
Demodectic Mange Symptoms
- Patchy hair loss (alopecia)
- Redness and scaling of skin
- Mild itching (may not be severe)
- Darkening of the skin
- Pustules or pimples if infected
- Often begins on face and forelimbs
Sarcoptic Mange Symptoms
- Intense itching (pruritus)
- Redness and rash
- Hair loss from scratching
- Crusting, especially on ear margins
- Thickened, darkened skin with chronicity
- Restlessness and discomfort
Secondary Symptoms
- Bacterial skin infections
- Yeast infections
- Skin odor from infection
- Lethargy from discomfort
- Weight loss in severe cases
- Lymph node enlargement
Important Note
Dogs with sarcoptic mange experience intense itching that often begins suddenly and can be quite severe, sometimes even before visible skin lesions appear. This is due to an allergic reaction to the mites and their waste products. With demodectic mange, itching may be mild or absent, especially in early localized cases. The distribution pattern of lesions is an important diagnostic clue - demodectic mange typically starts on the face and forelimbs, while sarcoptic mange often begins on thinly haired areas like elbows, ears, and abdomen.
Symptom Progression
| Stage | Demodectic Mange | Sarcoptic Mange |
|---|---|---|
| Early Stage | 1-5 small areas of hair loss, minimal itching | Intense itching, red skin, small bumps |
| Progressive Stage | Spreading hair loss, redness, scaling | Hair loss, crusting, skin thickening |
| Severe/Generalized | Widespread hair loss, secondary infections | Generalized hair loss, severe crusting, emaciation |
Without treatment, both types of mange can progress to severe skin disease with bacterial infections, generalized hair loss, and significant discomfort. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for the best outcomes.
Causes and Transmission of Mange
Understanding how dogs contract mange is essential for effective prevention and control. The transmission methods differ significantly between the two main types.
How Dogs Get Mange
Demodectic Mange Transmission:
- Puppies acquire Demodex mites from their mother during the first few days of life through close contact
- All normal dogs have a small population of these mites living harmlessly in hair follicles
- Disease occurs when mites multiply excessively due to:
- Immature immune system in puppies
- Weakened immune system in older dogs
- Immunosuppression from illness or medication
- Genetic predisposition in some breeds
- Not contagious between dogs or from dogs to humans
Sarcoptic Mange Transmission:
- Acquired through direct contact with infected dogs or wildlife (foxes, coyotes)
- Indirect transmission possible through contaminated environments:
- Bedding, blankets, and grooming tools
- Kennels, dog parks, and grooming facilities
- Mites can survive in the environment for several days
- Highly contagious to other dogs and temporarily to humans
- No age, breed, or sex predisposition - all dogs are susceptible
Risk Factors for Developing Mange
| Risk Factor | Demodectic Mange | Sarcoptic Mange |
|---|---|---|
| Age | Puppies (under 18 months) most susceptible | All ages equally susceptible |
| Immune Status | Weakened immune system major risk factor | Healthy and immunocompromised equally susceptible |
| Breed Predisposition | Some breeds may have genetic susceptibility | No breed predisposition |
| Environment | Not influenced by environment | High-risk environments: shelters, kennels, dog parks |
| Season | No seasonal pattern | May be more common in winter |
Genetic Factors in Demodectic Mange
There is strong evidence that generalized demodectic mange has a hereditary component. Dogs that develop generalized demodicosis often have an inherited immune system defect that prevents them from controlling mite populations. For this reason, most veterinarians recommend that dogs with generalized demodectic mange should not be bred, and the parents of affected dogs should not be bred again.
High-Risk Environments and Situations
- For Sarcoptic Mange:
- Animal shelters and rescue organizations
- Boarding kennels and dog daycare facilities
- Dog parks and popular walking trails
- Areas with high fox or coyote populations
- Multi-dog households with new introductions
- For Demodectic Mange:
- Puppies from mothers with history of demodectic mange
- Dogs with compromised immune systems
- Certain purebred dogs with suspected genetic predisposition
- Dogs on immunosuppressive medications
Diagnosis and Testing for Mange
Accurate diagnosis of mange is essential for effective treatment. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of physical examination, diagnostic tests, and sometimes therapeutic trials.
Diagnostic Methods
| Diagnostic Method | Procedure | Purpose and Accuracy |
|---|---|---|
| Skin Scraping | Veterinarian uses a blade to scrape the skin surface and collects cells to examine under microscope | Primary diagnostic test; can directly visualize mites, eggs, or feces |
| Hair Plucking | Hairs are plucked from affected areas and examined microscopically | Can detect Demodex mites within hair follicles |
| PCR Test | Molecular test to detect mite DNA | Highly sensitive; useful when mites are difficult to find |
| Skin Biopsy | Small skin sample taken for histological examination | Used in severe or chronic cases; can identify mites in tissue |
| Therapeutic Trial | Treatment for scabies when diagnosis is suspected but unconfirmed | Diagnostic and therapeutic; positive response supports diagnosis |
Diagnosing mange can sometimes be challenging for several reasons:
- Low Mite Numbers: Especially in early sarcoptic mange, mites can be difficult to find on skin scrapings
- Sampling Error: Mites may be missed if the wrong areas are sampled or if the scraping is too superficial
- Previous Treatments: Recent bathing or topical treatments can reduce mite visibility
- Chronic Cases: In long-standing cases, inflammation and secondary infection may mask the underlying mite infestation
- Atypical Presentations: "Scabies incognito" in well-groomed dogs can be difficult to diagnose
Because of these challenges, veterinarians may recommend treatment based on clinical signs alone, especially when sarcoptic mange is strongly suspected but mites cannot be found. Response to treatment then confirms the diagnosis.
When to Suspect Mange
Veterinarians typically suspect mange when:
- Itching begins suddenly and intensely (suggests sarcoptic mange)
- Hair loss occurs in specific patterns (face for demodex, ears/elbows for scabies)
- Multiple animals in household are affected (suggests contagious sarcoptic mange)
- There's known exposure to wildlife or infected dogs
- Standard allergy treatments provide little relief
- Human family members develop itchy skin lesions (suggests scabies)
Diagnostic Approach Recommendations
The diagnostic approach depends on the type of mange suspected. For demodectic mange, multiple deep skin scrapings are usually diagnostic. For sarcoptic mange, the diagnosis can be more challenging due to the difficulty finding mites. When sarcoptic mange is suspected but skin scrapings are negative, a therapeutic trial with an effective scabies treatment is often recommended. If the dog shows significant improvement within 2-4 weeks, the diagnosis is confirmed. In some cases, blood tests for antibodies to sarcoptic mites may be helpful, but these have limitations as antibodies may not develop until 3-5 weeks after infection.
Treatment Options for Mange
Successful treatment of mange requires a targeted approach based on the specific type of mite, the extent of the condition, and the dog's overall health. Treatment typically involves medications to eliminate mites, address secondary infections, and relieve symptoms.
⚠️ Important Treatment Consideration
Never use mange treatments intended for dogs on other species without veterinary guidance. Some medications, particularly ivermectin and related drugs, can be toxic to certain dog breeds (Collies, Shetland Sheepdogs, Australian Shepherds, and other herding breeds) due to the MDR1 gene mutation. Always follow your veterinarian's instructions precisely and never use products off-label without professional guidance.
Modern Mange Treatments
Treatment Protocols by Mange Type
| Mange Type | Treatment Approach | Duration | Follow-up |
|---|---|---|---|
| Localized Demodectic | Often resolves spontaneously; may use topical therapy | 4-6 weeks | Monitor for spread; usually excellent prognosis |
| Generalized Demodectic | Systemic medications (isoxazolines, milbemycin, ivermectin) ± medicated dips | Several months | Monthly skin scrapings until 2 negative results |
| Sarcoptic Mange | Systemic isoxazolines or macrocyclic lactones; treat all in-contact animals | 2-4 treatments at 2-4 week intervals | Clinical improvement within 2 weeks; full resolution in 6-8 weeks |
Treatment Considerations
Requires consistent, appropriate approach:
Moderate Management
Treatment involves prescription medications, follow-up testing, and addressing secondary issues. Success depends on correct diagnosis and consistent treatment.
Prognosis and Outcome
Generally Good with Treatment
Most Cases Resolve
Most dogs achieve complete recovery with appropriate treatment. Demodectic mange may recur in dogs with ongoing immune issues.
Environmental Management
For sarcoptic mange, environmental control is essential to prevent reinfestation:
- Wash all bedding, collars, and soft toys in hot water
- Thoroughly clean and disinfect kennels, crates, and living areas
- Vacuum frequently and dispose of vacuum bags
- Treat all dogs in the household, even if asymptomatic
- Consider environmental sprays with insect growth regulators in severe cases
With appropriate comprehensive treatment, the prognosis for most cases of mange is good to excellent. Demodectic mange in young dogs often resolves completely as their immune system matures, while adult-onset cases may require management of underlying conditions.
Prevention Strategies
Preventing mange involves different strategies for the two types, focusing on immune system support for demodectic mange and avoiding exposure for sarcoptic mange.
Effective Mange Prevention
| Prevention Method | Demodectic Mange | Sarcoptic Mange |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Preventatives | Some monthly preventatives help control mite populations | Many flea/tick preventatives also prevent sarcoptic mites |
| Avoiding Exposure | Not applicable (not contagious) | Avoid contact with infected animals and high-risk environments |
| Immune System Support | Proper nutrition, routine veterinary care, managing underlying conditions | Less critical but overall health supports recovery |
| Breeding Considerations | Do not breed dogs with history of generalized demodicosis | No specific breeding considerations |
Practical Prevention Measures
- For All Dogs:
- Use veterinarian-recommended parasite preventatives regularly
- Maintain good overall health with proper nutrition and exercise
- Schedule routine veterinary check-ups to catch problems early
- Address any underlying health issues promptly
- Specifically for Sarcoptic Mange:
- Avoid contact with stray dogs or wildlife
- Be cautious at dog parks, kennels, and grooming facilities
- Isolate new dogs until health status is confirmed
- Practice good hygiene with shared equipment and spaces
- Specifically for Demodectic Mange:
- Be aware of breed predispositions and family history
- Support immune health, especially in puppies and seniors
- Avoid unnecessary steroids or immunosuppressive medications
- Monitor dogs with previous episodes for recurrence
Special Considerations for High-Risk Situations
Extra precautions are needed in multi-dog households, breeding facilities, and shelters. For sarcoptic mange, quarantine new arrivals and consider prophylactic treatment in outbreak situations. For demodectic mange, be particularly vigilant with puppies from lines with a history of the condition. Dogs that have recovered from generalized demodectic mange should not be bred due to the hereditary component. In kennel situations, maintaining excellent sanitation and avoiding overcrowding can help prevent the spread of sarcoptic mange.
Human Risk and Protection
Understanding the zoonotic potential of mange is important for protecting both pet and human family members.
Human Health Considerations
- Sarcoptic Mange (Scabies):
- Can be temporarily transmitted to humans
- Causes itchy red bumps, typically on arms, chest, or abdomen
- Mites cannot complete their life cycle on humans
- Infestation is self-limiting if the dog is treated
- Human symptoms resolve once the dog is no longer contagious
- Demodectic Mange:
- Not transmissible to humans
- Humans have their own species of Demodex mites
- No health risk to humans from canine demodicosis
When humans are infested with canine scabies mites (a condition called "canine scabies in humans"), they typically experience:
- Itchy Red Bumps: Small, red, raised lesions that appear where mites have burrowed
- Distribution Pattern: Often on areas that had contact with the dog - arms, chest, abdomen
- Self-Limiting: The infestation typically resolves on its own within 1-3 weeks as the mites cannot reproduce on humans
- Symptom Relief: Anti-itch creams and oral antihistamines can provide comfort
- Resolution: Complete resolution occurs once the dog source is treated and no longer contagious
While human infestation with canine scabies is uncomfortable, it rarely causes serious health issues. The most effective approach is eliminating the infestation in the dog and its environment. Humans who develop persistent symptoms should consult their physician.
Protective Measures for Households
- Practice good hygiene when handling dogs with suspected or confirmed sarcoptic mange
- Wash hands thoroughly after contact with infected animals
- Avoid close contact (sleeping in bed, prolonged cuddling) with infected dogs
- Wear gloves when applying treatments or handling contaminated bedding
- Launder bedding and clothing that has contacted infected dogs in hot water
- Inform family members about the condition and preventive measures
- Consult a physician if human family members develop unexplained skin lesions
Household Protection Significance
Protecting human family members from sarcoptic mange requires treating the dog source promptly and practicing good hygiene during treatment. The good news is that once the dog is properly treated and no longer contagious, human symptoms will resolve without specific treatment in most cases. For households with immunocompromised individuals, extra precautions may be warranted, including temporary separation from the infected dog during the initial treatment phase. Remember that demodectic mange poses no risk to humans, so no special precautions are needed beyond standard hygiene practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
While rare, severe untreated mange can potentially be fatal in dogs. This is more likely with:
- Generalized Sarcoptic Mange: Dogs can become emaciated, develop secondary infections, and suffer from protein loss through damaged skin
- Severe Demodectic Mange: When complicated by widespread bacterial infection (pyoderma) and sepsis
- Underlying Health Conditions: Dogs with compromised immune systems or other serious illnesses are at higher risk
With proper veterinary treatment, the prognosis for most cases of mange is excellent. Fatal outcomes are almost always associated with lack of treatment, inappropriate treatment, or severe underlying health issues. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment prevent the condition from progressing to life-threatening stages.
It depends on the type of mange:
- Sarcoptic Mange: Yes, highly contagious between dogs. Transmission occurs through direct contact with an infected dog or contaminated environment. All dogs in contact with an infected dog should be treated.
- Demodectic Mange: No, not contagious between dogs. All dogs normally have a small number of Demodex mites acquired from their mother shortly after birth. Disease develops when these mites multiply excessively due to immune system issues, not from exposure to other infected dogs.
This distinction is crucial for proper management. Dogs with sarcoptic mange need to be isolated from other dogs during treatment, while dogs with demodectic mange do not require isolation.
Yes, indoor dogs can get both types of mange:
- Sarcoptic Mange: Indoor dogs can acquire scabies through:
- Brief contact with infected dogs during walks or vet visits
- Exposure to contaminated environments (boarding facilities, groomers)
- Human family members carrying mites on clothing
- Exposure to wildlife (foxes, coyotes) that may come near the home
- Demodectic Mange: Since all dogs carry Demodex mites from puppyhood, indoor dogs can develop demodicosis if their immune system becomes compromised, regardless of their exposure to other animals.
While indoor dogs generally have lower risk for sarcoptic mange, they are not completely protected. All dogs, regardless of lifestyle, can develop demodectic mange if they have underlying immune system issues.
Treatment duration varies by mange type and severity:
- Localized Demodectic Mange: Often resolves spontaneously in 4-8 weeks; may require minimal treatment
- Generalized Demodectic Mange: Typically requires several months of treatment, with monthly skin scrapings to monitor progress. Treatment continues until two consecutive negative scrapings at monthly intervals
- Sarcoptic Mange: Clinical improvement is usually seen within 2 weeks of starting treatment, with full resolution taking 6-8 weeks. Most protocols involve 2-4 treatments at 2-4 week intervals
It's essential to complete the full course of treatment even if symptoms improve, as stopping early can lead to recurrence. Follow your veterinarian's specific recommendations for your dog's condition.
It depends on the type and extent of mange:
- Localized Demodectic Mange: Yes, approximately 90% of cases resolve spontaneously without treatment as the puppy's immune system matures
- Generalized Demodectic Mange: No, requires medical treatment to resolve
- Sarcoptic Mange: No, will not resolve without treatment and will typically worsen over time
Even for localized demodectic mange that may resolve on its own, veterinary consultation is recommended to confirm the diagnosis and monitor for progression to generalized disease. For all other forms of mange, prompt treatment is necessary to relieve discomfort and prevent complications.
Most home remedies are not effective for treating mange and can sometimes be harmful:
- Ineffectiveness: Most home remedies cannot penetrate deep enough to eliminate mites in hair follicles or burrowed in skin
- Potential Harm: Some suggested home treatments (certain oils, chemicals) can be toxic to dogs or cause additional skin irritation
- Delayed Proper Treatment: Relying on ineffective home remedies delays appropriate veterinary care, allowing the condition to worsen
- Supportive Role Only: Some gentle, veterinarian-approved topical treatments may provide temporary relief for symptoms but won't eliminate the mites
For effective mange treatment, prescription medications specifically designed to eliminate mites are necessary. While some home approaches might help with symptom management as adjuncts to veterinary treatment, they should never replace proper medical care. Always consult your veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.
Bottom Line: Managing Mange in Dogs
Mange is a treatable skin condition caused by microscopic mites, with two main forms affecting dogs: demodectic mange (not contagious, related to immune function) and sarcoptic mange (highly contagious). Accurate diagnosis by a veterinarian is essential as these conditions require different treatment approaches. Most cases respond well to modern treatments like isoxazolines, macrocyclic lactones, or medicated dips when implemented properly. The prognosis is generally good with appropriate care, though generalized demodectic mange may require extended treatment. Prevention strategies differ between the two types but include regular veterinary care, parasite preventatives, and avoiding exposure to infected animals for sarcoptic mange. While sarcoptic mange can temporarily affect humans, symptoms resolve once the dog is treated. With proper diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care, most dogs with mange can achieve complete recovery and return to comfortable, healthy lives.
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