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via 10 Signs Your Dog Has a Yeast Infection | petMD

Signs of Yeast Infections in Dogs

Changes in color and texture

Signs of a yeast infection can vary depending on the site of the infection. “The biggest sign is alteration in the appearance of the skin,” Marrinan says. A pink or red color is commonly seen in the early stages of infection. With chronic infection, the skin can become leathery, thick, and gray or black. Remember that yeast infections can occur in a number of places on your dog’s body if conditions are right, he notes.

Greasy skin

Excessively oily or greasy skin is another common symptom of a yeast infection in dogs, according to Loft.

Scaly skin

Some dogs with yeast infections develop crusting, scaling, or flakiness of the skin that can look a little like dandruff, says Dr. Jennifer Coates, veterinary advisor for petMD.

Head shaking

“The ears are far and away the most common location for a yeast infection,” Marrinan says. In such cases, you likely will notice your dog trying to relieve his discomfort by repeatedly shaking or tilting his head.

Scratching and rubbing

Your dog also might be quite itchy from the yeast infection. You may see him scratching the affected spot, rubbing up against furniture or another surface, or scooting along the floor, Marrinan says.

Licking

Some dogs might attempt to relieve itchy discomfort by incessantly licking the infected area, the doctors note.

Swelling and warmth

While redness and itching are the first signs of a yeast infection, symptoms can easily progress to swelling, warmth, and pain in the infected area, according to Marrinan.

Odor

Odor also is a common sign of a yeast infection, regardless of location, Loft says. “Some people claim the yeast-infected skin and ears smell like Cheetos or have a sweet smell, but this is typically not a reliable ‘test,’ as we often find certain bacterial infections can have a similar odor,” he says. “It is important to remember this can be seen with other infectious organisms beyond yeast, so diagnostic testing at the veterinarian’s office is required.”

Hair loss

Hair loss can accompany the yeast infection and associated inflammation, Loft says.

Drooling

A yeast infection in a dog’s mouth is extremely rare but can cause abnormal drooling, oral discomfort, and problems eating. Excessive drooling can also be a sign of other problems in the mouth, such as an abscessed tooth or bee sting, Marrinan says, so pet parents should take their dog to the vet to determine the cause.

Treating Yeast Infections in Dogs

The most important aspect of treating a yeast infection in dogs is identifying and addressing the underlying cause. This will make the risk of relapse less of a concern, Loft and Marrinan agree. For deep and generalized skin and paw/claw bed infections, veterinarians may prescribe oral antifungal medications such as ketoconazole, fluconazole, or terbinafine, Loft says. Ears can be treated topically with appropriate ear cleaners and medications, but severe ear infections may also require oral medications. Bathing the skin and fur with disinfecting and degreasing shampoos can also help, Marrinan adds. The best treatment regimen can be determined by a veterinarian familiar with the specifics of the dog’s case.

via German Spitz and Pomeranian Project

Pomeranian Project (formerly pomeranianproject.com) has reached its 10th year of providing you with as accurate and detailed an account of the history and development of the Pomeranian dog as possible.

Research will continue to carefully analyse original documents and other primary sources – so hopefully no ‘fake news’ here! In the near future some articles and information in both German and English will be added in order to better include our German speaking friends in this ongoing breed history project. Meanwhile please bear with us while some editing and re-arranging of format takes place.

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via Why Do Dogs Prefer Some Toys Over Others? – American Kennel Club

Generally speaking, most dogs like toys that simulate prey. This is why squeaky toys and soft toysare often very popular with most dogs. Hearing the high-pitched squeak and/or ripping apart a soft plush toy can be immensely satisfying to some dogs.

However, dogs are individuals, and even dogs within the same breed will have preferences due to personality differences. Some dogs prefer harder toys that feel good to chew on; others prefer toys like balls or Frisbees because they’re fun to chase and retrieve; and some dogs don’t like toys at all, unless their owner is in on the game.

Many people might think their dog has no interest in toys. It’s best to introduce toy play when your dog is young. Younger dogs and puppies are naturally more playful than older dogs. For puppies, younger dogs, or even less confident older dogs, you can try soft plush toys or even toys with real fur attached. Some dogs just need something totally new and different to entice them to play!

Your dog’s toy preferences can change throughout his or her life. Many puppies prefer rubbery-type chew toys while they’re teething, and senior dogs often like softer toys that are comfortable to hold and tug. During adulthood, your dog may need sturdier toys, such as thick ropes, or harder rubber balls.

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