Yeast infections in dogs are common and usually caused by an organism called Malassezia pachydermatis. The most common place to find a yeast infection is in a dog’s ear although you can have yeast infections of the dog’s skin as well.

Four Most Common Signs Of Yeast Infections In Dogs

1. Itchiness at the affected area
2. Brownish discharge
3. Foul or sour smell associated with the area
4. Redness of the skin

Like us, our dogs normally have yeast on their skin and in their ears. Problems start when something changes the microenvironment of the skin that allows the yeast to grow out of control.

Five Most Common Diseases That Can Result In A Yeast Infection In Dogs

1. Allergies to the environment, food, or both
2. Parasites of the skin
3. Hormonal diseases like hypothyroidism or diabetes
4. Nutritional diseases
5. Cancer

Yeast infections on dogs can possibly be passed on to people whose immune systems are compromised. People dealing with cancer, AIDS or on immunosuppressive medications should be careful when handling these dogs. People with healthy immune systems are not at risk of contracting a yeast infection from their dog.

What To Do If Your Dog Has A Yeast Infection In The Ears Or Skin

If you think there is a yeast infection in your dogs ears or skin, the best thing to do is tomake an appointmentwith your veterinarian for a completedog health carecheck. A yeast infection in a dog is an indicator of an underlying problem and will not resolve or will reoccur unless the underlying problem is identified and managed.

Yours in health,

Dr. Kent Morley