Dog Mange - Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Mange is the term used for a pet skin disease caused by parasitic mites as they permanently infest skin. The mites dogs get are 'burrowing' mites which include sarcoptes, demodex and other less common species. Mange is highly contagious to other animals. Humans can’t catch mange from dogs, but they can get some mild skin irritation from contact with them.

Demodex mange is thought to be passed from the mother to the pup because it requires very close contact. Many healthy dogs carry Demodex but are asymptomatic, meaning they do not show symptoms of mange. It is suspected that for a Demodex infection to be established, there must be a genetic predisposition in the dog’s ability to control the mites. This means that some dogs will be more resistant than others. 

Immunosuppressed dogs are at greater risk of developing an infection and spreading the mites.

Sarcoptes mange can only be caught by direct contact with other infected dogs.

Diagnosis is confirmed by demonstration of the mites in skin scrapes. As the mite lives within the skin, it cannot be seen on the surface.



Skin scraping for the mites involves:

If a diagnosis of mites is confirmed, our vets will work out an appropriate treatment plan. There are several options available, including medicated shampoos, topical ointments, oral medications, or a combination, depending on the severity and type of mange. We will discuss with you which one we feel will work best for your dog.

What to Expect

Your dog may require regular veterinary check-ups and skin scrapings to monitor progress. You may also notice hair regrowth, reduced itching, and improved skin condition over the course of treatment.

How Long Treatment Takes

Healing mange in dogs can take several weeks to a few months. Generally, dogs remain on the treatment until they display two consecutive negative skin scrapings, taken at least one month apart.

Preventing mange starts with booking yearly flea and tick injections. The active ingredient in Bravecto Quantum is used in the treatment and control of mange and it provides up to 12 months of protection.

Other Tips to Prevent Mange

Keep your dog’s living areas clean and regularly wash bedding and toys.

Bathe and groom your dog regularly to maintain healthy skin and coat.

Avoid contact with dogs that show signs of mange or unexplained itching and hair loss.

Maintain your dog’s overall health through a balanced diet and regular vet visits to help reduce susceptibility.

Minimising Recurrence

Follow your vet’s treatment plan thoroughly, even after symptoms improve.

Schedule follow-up skin checks if your dog has a history of mange.

Treat any secondary infections promptly to prevent complications.

With early prevention and proper care, mange can be managed effectively, keeping your dog comfortable and healthy.

At Sydney Animal Hospitals, your dog’s comfort and well-being are at the heart of everything we do.

Our experienced team of Sydney vets takes a personalised approach to each dog, creating a treatment plan that suits their age, health, and specific type of mange, in a peaceful, hygienic, and low-stress environment.

If your dog shows signs of mange, it’s important to seek veterinary care promptly. Early intervention improves recovery and reduces the risk of passing mites to other pets.

Stop mange before it spreads!