Demodex Canis

Information About Demodex Canis (Demodectic Mange)

What is Demodex?
Demodectic mange is caused by a microscopic mite called Demodex canis. Mites are normal residents of dog skin; it is only in some individual dogs that mites cause problems. These mites live inside the hair follicles of the dogs. For some reason, conditions change in certain dogs to allow demodex mites to “gain the upper hand,” the mites proliferate and can cause serious skin disease. Demodex can be classified as “localized” meaning the lesions are in isolated areas or Demodex can be “generalized” resulting in widespread lesions.

How is it Transmitted?
All dogs raised normally by their mothers possess this mite as mites are transferred from mother to pup via cuddling during the first few days of life (after pup is older it is unable to pick up demodex mites. Puppies raised by hand, do not ever get demodex mites). Mites are not transmitted to people or other dogs except from mother dog to pup as described. Demodectic mange (unlike Sarcoptic mange) is not contagious.

What are the Signs?
Usually a red, scaly, well-circumscribed lesion on the face or forelegs is present. These lesions are accompanied by circular patches of hair loss.

How is Demodex Treated?
It generally goes away on its own. Goodwinol ointment, an insecticide, may be used daily to control localized demodicosis. Hair re-growth should be evident after about a month of treatment. When ointment is used, rubbing the medication on the area may break off the weaker hairs at the margin of the lesion. The lesion may thus appear to get larger at first. Antibacterial gels are also used against localized demodicosis and associated skin infections. Often it is best not to treat this condition and to simply allow it to resolve on its own. A small percentage of dogs with localized demodicosis will develop a more serious condition known as generalized demodicosis. These cases involve an oral anti-parasite medication, with or without antibiotics and shampoo therapy.

How is Demodex Prevented?
It cannot be prevented. Fortunately, the chances your dog will develop this condition are small.

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