Some common inflammatory skin conditions can affect your pup’s health and overall comfort. If your dog’s symptoms don’t seem to subside on their own, visit your local vet for a complete evaluation and treatment. Here are a few examples of what to look for.

Canine Inflammatory Skin Conditions

1. Ear Hematoma

Ear hematomas can occur in both cats and dogs, but they’re much more common for canines. This collection of blood pools between the skin in the ear flap cartilage, swelling and irritating either the entire ear or part of the ear. As a result, the dog may scratch aggressively or shake their head continuously. An ear hematoma can also be caused by obsessive scratching, either from boredom, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or the discomfort of ear infections or allergies.

2. Lick Granuloma

Obsessive-compulsive disorder, allergies, skin infections, anxiety, or fear can cause your dog to lick their limbs until they bleed. A lick granuloma is most common on the front legs at the wrist joint and can be found on medium to large breeds. The dog can get into a cycle of self-induced trauma, followed by inflammation and infection. Speak to your vet for ways to deter your dog from licking.

3. Otitis Externa

Otitis externa is an ear infection caused by trapped moisture and warmth in the ear flap. The anatomy and structure of dogs’ ears make them perfect environments for yeast and bacteria to grow. An ear infection will produce brown discharge, an odorous smell, and redness around the ear.

Your dog may obsessively shake their head or scratch at their ears because of the discomfort, which can cause a secondary issue. If they are persistent, the skin can break and bleed, causing an ear hematoma.

Otitis externa can be caused by environmental allergies, parasites, and foreign objects getting stuck in the ear canal. Severe symptoms include dizziness, circling, poor balance, pain in the mouth, and loss of hearing.

4. Hot Spots

Hot spots are small or large areas of your dog’s skin that become inflamed or irritated from a bacterial infection. A small area will rapidly worsen and spread, creating an uncomfortable lesion that is warm to the touch and oozing with fluid. If your dog scratches, it can make the spot grow faster and traumatize the area.

Hot spots, or acute moist dermatitis, are caused by trapped moisture, a dirty coat, parasites, allergies, stress, or excessive licking. Identify the cause of your dog’s hot spot with your vet for the most accurate treatment plan.

Florence Veterinary Hospital in Florence, KY, utilizes state-of-the-art laser therapy to treat inflammatory ear and skin conditions. They also offer services like microchipping, ear and eye surgery, and dentistry. Speak to a helpful staff member to schedule your pet’s appointment by calling (859) 371-6501. Visit their website for more information on their vet services.