Is your dog itchy all the time? His ears are sore and he has problems with his skin?
These can be clear signs of a yeast fungus.
The treatment is complex and the yeast fungus is usually stubborn. But it won’t work without treatment.
Here you can find everything Important about yeast in dogs. How it arises and how you recognize it. And also how the yeast fungus in dogs can be successfully treated.
In a nutshell: What is a yeast fungus in dogs?
Yeast fungi are unicellular organisms. They feed on sugar in the form of glucose, fructose or sucrose.
The two yeasts that affect dogs the most are Malassezia for for and Candida.
The Malassezia furfur can always be found on the dog without causing any disease. If it multiplies excessively, infections occur.
You can also find Candida on the skin and mucous membranes of dogs. If the number of yeast fungi is too large or too small, diseases of the stomach and intestines occur.
The yeast fungus in dogs is the most common cause of itching, sore ears and skin problems. It is often only treated properly too late.
Symptoms: How do I know if my dog has yeast?
A fungal infection is often mistaken for your dog’s allergic reaction. Therefore it is important that Symptoms such as odor and dandruff clearly recognizable.
The Malassezia furfur can be found all over the skin of your four-legged friend. When infected, the following symptoms appear.
Odor
If your dog has a fungal infection, its smell will change. It no longer smells like a dog, but develops a sweet, pungent smell.
Very uncomfortable. Like old cheese.
The smell is special penetrating on the paws and ears.
Itchy paws
The yeast sets in with an infection toxins free. These irritate the skin.
An unbearable itching ensues. Your four-legged friend constantly licks and nibbles at his paws until they bleed.
skin irritation and hair loss
When a fungal infection begins, a dark pink or red rash develops.
Since your four-legged friend will scratch the affected areas, they will turn gray and black.
At the same time it happens hair loss and the skin swells.
scales and crusts
In some dogs, the skin also reacts to a fungal infection crusts– and scaling.
This leads to increased itching and your dog will scratch a lot.
ear infections
The ears are the parts of your dog’s body that are most susceptible to yeast infections. If there is inflammation, it is constant shaking his head or tilting your head is a clear sign.
The ears become swollen, red and inflamed. Pain comes with it.
In addition, the infected ears produce a waxy dark discharge.
What are the causes of yeast infestation in dogs?
The most common cause of a yeast infection is having treatment with it antibiotics.
The intestinal flora with the existing beneficial bacteria is weakened. The «good» germs are reduced – the «bad» germs multiply.
This gives the yeast fungus a free rein and can spread.
A weakening of the immune system in your four-legged friend through the administration of cortisone or other immune-modulating drugs also supports the growth of the yeast fungus.
If your fur nose suffers from Cushing’s disease or is prone to allergies, the yeast fungus is also «happy».
What are the treatment options for yeast infestation in dogs?
Usually, yeast infections are treated with the help of fungicidal Ablutions are the order of the day. There are medicated shampoos or solutions for this.
It makes sense to cut the fur short on a long-haired four-legged friend.
The fungus is also tackled from the inside. The vet will give your four-legged friend antifungal medication.
In addition, the environment around your puppy must be cleaned and disinfected. If you don’t, the infection will flare up again and again.
Disinfection is also particularly important for you as the owner of a dog that has contracted yeast.
You can also infect yourself with the fungal spores.
You can do this to help with a yeast infection in your dog
There are also ways to treat yeast naturally in your dog’s diet that you can take yourself and with which you can support the treatment of yeast.
The anti-yeast diet
Yeast fungi love sugar and starch. So you cut out all foods that contain sugar and starch.
These include potatoes, rice, millet, corn and grains. Fruit and honey are also taboo.
In this way the yeast becomes outright starved.
Alternatively, you can give your four-legged friend meat, green vegetables, sprouts and seeds.
Treat yeast in dogs naturally
There are some too home remedies, with which you can treat the yeast fungus in dogs naturally. The effect of the agents used if you treat your dog naturally is not scientifically proven.
- Plain Yoghurt: Cools irritated skin
- Apple cider vinegar: Relieves itching and is said to kill spores
- Coconut Oil: Said to relieve itching and soothe the skin
- Baking soda: Said to slow the growth of the fungus
- Hydrogen Peroxide: Said to slow growth
- Turmeric: Actually has a proven antifungal effect
- Cinnamon: The active ingredient methoxycinnamaldehyde inhibits the growth of yeast fungi
- Garlic: Essential oils are said to inhibit fungal growth
Danger
It’s definitely important with the antifungalsthat the vet gives you to treat your dog. Home remedies alone will not help.
Can yeast fungus in dogs be transmitted to humans?
Yes he can! Especially if your own immune system something just hit.
It is therefore very important to wash your hands thoroughly after treatment.
Without a certain level of hygiene on your part, there is a risk of spreading the adhering fungal spores.
In addition, your skin can also react to the yeast fungus and cause unpleasant infections!
What can I do to prevent yeast infestation in dogs?
An important aspect to prevention is good nutrition. Few carbohydrates, no sugar – but fresh meat and vegetables.
If you take ready-made food for your fur nose, pay attention to the ingredients.
Check your four-legged friend’s fur, ears and skin regularly. And take it seriously if he scratches a lot.
The faster the yeast infestation is noticed and treated, the less serious the consequences are.
Can yeast become chronic in dogs?
Doesn’t get a yeast fungus in the dog in time treated, it can become chronic. It then spreads to other areas of your dog.
The esophagus, throat and stomach can be affected. The yeast fungus Candida causes massive problems here.
Chronic yeast infections are a real pain for your dog.
It’s best for you to ensure that your darling doesn’t have any trouble with it.
Important
Regular checks and immediate treatment are the best protection!
How long does it take for a yeast infection in a dog to heal?
A yeast infection is long-lasting and persistent. It can drag on for weeks and months.
Patience and the right treatment are required here.
The sooner it is recognized and the quicker the infection is treated, the quicker it can be cured.
Supporting with the right Nourishment the chances of recovery improve.
Conclusion
Canine yeast is a common disease. Their course is often lengthy and troublesome.
Yeast infections are treatable if they recognized and treated early.
Don’t just rely on home remedies. With yeast fungi it will not work without chemicals!
Has your dog ever had a fungal infection? How are your experiences? Leave us a comment and let us share your experiences.