As part of normal skin flora, spore-producing fungi are present in small numbers on the dog’s body. When there is an excess of yeast, it can cause a yeast infection.
Dogs can get yeast infections anywhere, even on their ears.
In general, yeast infection is caused by something else. Yeast infections can be caused by anything that reduces the skin’s normal defenses.
Breeds of dogs that have a higher risk for yeast dermatitis are:
- Shih Tzus
- West Highland White Terriers
- American Cocker Spaniels
- Basset Hounds
- Boxers
- Poodles
- Dachshunds
- Australian Silky Terriers
What causes yeast infections in dogs?
Infections with yeast in dogs usually occur as a secondary problem. It means there’s something else that weakens the skin defense mechanisms, allowing the yeast to multiply more than usual.
If your dog has allergies to food or the environment, it is common for yeast infections to appear in their ears or skin. Other issues can cause yeast infection in dogs, such as hormonal imbalances or diseases that suppress immunity.
No studies have been done to prove that the following causes yeast infections in dogs’ skin.
- Antibiotics
- Brewer’s yeast
- Oatmeal Shampoos
- Sugar or carbohydrates in foods
What are the symptoms of yeast infections in dogs?
The yeast infection can result in red or irritated skin, itchy ears or a musty smell.
The skin can become discolored and thickened (gray or brown).
You can check out some of the signs and symptoms for dogs with yeast infection.
Skin
The belly can be affected by yeast infections. They can be seen on the belly, or in moist areas, like in skin folds.
Itchy skin, redness, flakiness, irritation, or itchiness may occur. Hair loss may also be present.
The skin can thicken or darken if the infection persists. Dogs with yeast infections in their mouths or faces can experience extreme itching and face rubbing.
Paws
Dogs with yeast infection on their feet can develop red, itchy, and irritated paws.
Most often the underside of paws is affected, in between the pads. However, yeast can appear anywhere on the feet. A brownish discharge may be visible in the nail bed.
When dogs have yeast on their feet, they tend to lick them more often than usual. Hair loss may occur.
Ears
The ears of dogs are often infected with yeast. They can smell musty or sweet.
The discharge will usually be brown and you may see some redness. It may look like the ear is greasy and that hairs are matted.
Itchy yeast infections can cause dogs to itch their ears and rub their heads excessively.
What is the difference between ear mites and yeast infections in dogs?
Infections of the yeast in dog ears are characterized by redness, brown discharge, head rubbing or shaking, an odor and itching.
Infections with ear mites can be extremely itchy, and cause similar symptoms. It is common for the discharge to be dark, waxy or crusty. The ear mites can be seen with the naked eye but are highly contagious.
A swab of the dog’s ears can be examined under a microscopical microscope by your veterinarian to determine if it is yeast or mites that are causing their problem.
What is the best treatment for dog yeast infection?
What is the best way to treat a canine yeast infection? It depends on where the infection has occurred.
Ears
A dog with a yeast-infected ear may be diagnosed by your veterinarian using cytology. This involves staining the discharge to examine it under a microscope.
The prescription treatment can include antifungal drops, ointments, ear cleaners, or, in more severe cases or those that are difficult to treat, oral antifungal medications.
Skin and Paws
Yeast on the skin can also be diagnosed using cytology.
Topical antifungal products, such as creams and wipes or sprays can be used to treat yeast infections.
Chlorhexidine and Ketoconazole are all effective topical agents for treating yeast.
Oral antifungal medication is used in severe or difficult cases. Fluconazole is one of the antifungal oral medications that are used on dogs. Only use these medications under the supervision of your veterinarian.
Only a veterinarian should prescribe human medications.
What are the home remedies for yeast infections in dogs?
Many home remedies are offered for treating dog yeast infection, but they have not been proven effective.
No studies have been conducted to prove that the use of any of these products is effective in treating yeast infections on dogs’ skin.
- Yogurt
- Probiotics
- Herbs
- Fermented vegetables
- Coconut Oil
- Dog foods “Yeast free”
- Dog foods that are “anti-yeast”
- Low-carbohydrate dog foods
No studies have been conducted to prove that the topical application of the following products is effective in treating yeast infection in dogs.
- Coconut oil
- Witch hazel
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Herbal Shampoo/Tea Tree Oil
- Dogs can be poisoned by essential oils
Vinegar Rinses
Science does support the use of vinegar rinses to treat yeast. It is crucial to use the right dilution in order to prevent irritation.
The vinegar helps change the pH level of the skin, making it less hospitable for yeast. Only use this under your vet’s direction.
What to do to prevent Yeast infections in Dogs
To reduce the risk of recurrence, it is important to address the cause.
Bathing your dog regularly with antifungal soap may prove beneficial. For shampoo to work, it must be left on the dog’s body for at least 10 minutes.
If your dog has skin folds, you may want to treat them to prevent the area from getting too wet. Yeast thrives in dark, moist places like skin folds or ears.
Yeast can be used as a component in an immunotherapy vaccine to desensitize dogs who have tested positive for yeast allergy.
Consult your veterinarian if you think your dog may have yeast infected. Your vet will diagnose the condition and recommend a treatment plan.