Should I shave my dog with seborrhea

By Isabella Storyclaire

last updated September 16, 2024

Contributions sourced from

Seborrhea in Dogs

What Is Seborrhea in Dogs?

Seborrhea in dogs is a condition that affects keratin in the skin. Keratin is a protein that gives skin and hair its form.

In canine seborrhea, keratin is produced in the wrong amountseither too much or not enough. Seborrhea causes dogs to have a coat of hair thats dry and lackluster or greasy.

Seborrhea in dogs can be what veterinarians call primary or secondary.

Primary Seborrhea in Dogs

Primary seborrhea is a genetic disease that always causes the dog to produce abnormal keratin.

American Cocker Spaniels, West Highland White Terriers, English Springer Spaniels, and Basset Hounds are the most common breeds to have primary seborrhea, but any dog can have this condition.

Secondary Seborrhea in Dogs

With secondary seborrhea, an underlying issue is causing your dog to make abnormal keratin.

Health issues that can cause secondary seborrhea include:

Symptoms of Seborrhea in Dogs

Possible symptoms of seborrhea in dogs are:

Very dry, dull coat
Dandruff
Greasy, oily skin that smells bad
Crusted, plaque-like (rough and scaly) skin lesions
Itching that ranges from mild to severe
Large amount of earwax and ear debris

Generally, all the skin is affected by seborrhea, but the folds of skin between the toes, in the armpits, on the belly and perineum (the area under a dogs tail), and at the bottom of the neck are usually worse.

Dogs with lots of skin folds, like Basset Hounds, usually experience more affected skin in those folds.

Causes of Seborrhea in Dogs

The cause of a dogs seborrhea depends on whether its primary or secondary.

Causes of Primary Seborrhea in Dogs

Primary seborrhea is a congenital, genetic disease that typically starts at a young age and gets worse as your dog gets older. West Highland White Terriers, Basset Hounds, American Cocker Spaniels, and English Springer Spaniels are most commonly affected.

Causes of Secondary Seborrhea in Dogs

Diseases and other health issues that can cause secondary seborrhea in dogs include:

How Vets Diagnose Seborrhea in Dogs

Diagnosis of seborrhea starts with a physical examination by your veterinarian to check your dogs skin and look for other symptoms.

You will also be asked how long it has been happening, if your dog has been scratching, and if there are any changes in your dogs food and water intake.

Your veterinarian will perform testing to determine the cause of your dogs skin condition. The following tests could help:

A skin scraping to test for mites and lice
An impression cytology (collection) of skin and ear debris to test for a yeast or bacterial infection that looks like seborrhea, such as Malassezia yeast
A blood chemistry panel to screen for diabetes or Cushings disease (your vet will need further tests to confirm the diagnosis before starting treatment)
A blood test for thyroid hormone levels to determine whether your dog has hypothyroidism
A biopsy to look for autoimmune disease or cancer

Treatment for Seborrhea in Dogs

Based on the test results, your veterinarian will have a better understanding of what is causing your dogs seborrhea. The most important aspect of seborrhea treatment istreating any underlying conditions.

Treating the Underlying Cause

Hypothyroidism: If your dog has hypothyroidism, they are treated with hormone replacement, an oral medication called levothyroxine that your dog will take for the rest of their life.
Cushings disease: Treatment of Cushings disease involves lifelong medication called Vetoryl.
Diabetes: Treatment of diabetes requires daily insulin injections.
Cancer or autoimmune disease: If a biopsy shows that your dog has autoimmune disease or cancer, they will be started on medication to manage the disease, or your veterinarian may refer you to a specialist.
Lice or mites: If a skin scraping finds lice or mites, the veterinarian will put your dog on medication to kill the parasites.
Fleas: If your dog has fleas, a monthly flea preventative will curb flea allergies that can cause or worsen seborrhea.
Vitamin deficiency: If your veterinarian suspects vitamin A-responsive dermatitis or zinc-responsive dermatitis, they will recommend additional vitamins in your dogs diet.
Food allergy: If your veterinarian suspects a primary food allergy, they may recommend a hypoallergenic food trial.
Infection: If your dog has an infection that developed because of seborrhea, then the infection must be treated. Your dog will require a three- to four-week course of oral antibiotics and/or antifungals.

Treating the Seborrhea Itself

To treat the seborrhea itself, your dog needs frequent baths with anti-seborrheic shampoos, typically every 2 or 3 days to start with. These shampoos typically contain coal tar and salicylic acid.

Frequent bathing is continued for 2-3 weeks or longer, until the skin improves. The goal of bathing is to remove excess keratin. Depending on how your dog responds to treatment, bathing frequency may decrease to every 1 to 2 weeks, or it may stay at every 2 to 3 days.

Additionally, you will need to clean your dogs ears with a medicated ear cleaner every 2 to 3 days. If there is an infection in the ears, your veterinarian will prescribe an ear medication as well.

Your dog may also be started on prednisone to decrease inflammation and debris buildup. Regular rechecks with your veterinarian, typically every one to three weeks, are important to monitor how your dog is responding to treatment.

Recovery and Management of Seborrhea in Dogs

Recovery and management depend on the cause of the seborrhea. If a primary cause of seborrhea can be found, managing the primary disease is key.

It can take several weeks for the signs of seborrhea to resolve, and the primary disease-causing seborrhea will need to be managed for life.

It is also important to understand that once seborrhea is present, abnormal keratin placement in the skin will continue to occur.

Using anti-seborrheic shampoos and ear cleaners on a schedule recommended by your vet for the rest of your dogs life helps to decrease keratin buildup and prevent infections.

If your dog gets itchier or develops skin lesions, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible.

Management of seborrhea often requires a lifelong routine of bathing and ear cleaning, but with consistent treatment, your dog can enjoy a good quality of life.

Seborrhea in Dogs FAQs

How can I treat my dog's seborrhea at home?

After seeing a vet to confirm your dogs diagnosis, you can treat seborrhea at home by using an anti-seborrheic shampoo containing coal tar and salicylic acid.

Home treatment also includes bathing your dog every 2 to 7 days on a schedule set by your vet. You will also clean your dogs ears with a medicated ear cleaner every 2 to 3 days.

If an underlying health issue is causing your dogs seborrhea, youll need to follow all treatment protocols for that illness to ensure the seborrhea is properly managed.

If your dogs seborrhea is not improving, however, take them to the veterinarian. They might have developed bacterial and yeast infections of the skin and ears that require a prescription medication.

Does seborrhea in dogs cause hair loss?

Yes, it can cause hair loss.

What does seborrhea smell like on dogs?

Seborrhea can smell very badly, like grease, corn chips, or a strong doggy scent.

Is seborrhea in dogs contagious?

No, seborrhea is not contagious to other dogs or humans.

Image Credit: iStockphoto.com/photo-vista.de

WRITTEN BY

Emily A. Fassbaugh, DVM

Veterinarian

Dr. Emily Fassbaugh grew up in San Diego. She attended the University of California, Davis for both her undergraduate studies in Animal...

Should I Shave My Dogs Paw Pads

When it comes to grooming our furry friends, one question that often arises is whether or not we should shave their paw pads. Some pet owners believe that shaving the pads of their dogs paws can provide various benefits, while others argue that its unnecessary and can even be harmful. In this article, we will examine the pros and cons of shaving your dogs paw pads to help you make an informed decision.

Table Of Contents

One of the main arguments in favor of shaving the paw pads is that it can help prevent slipping on smooth surfaces. Dogs with long hair in their paws can sometimes struggle to maintain traction, especially on hardwood or tile floors. By shaving the hair around the paw pads, it is believed that dogs can have better grip and reduce the risk of accidents or injuries.

Another advantage of shaving the paw pads is that it can help keep them clean and free from debris. Dogs often walk on various surfaces, including grass, dirt, and pavement, and debris can get trapped in their paw pads. This can lead to discomfort, irritation, and even infection. Shaving the hair around the pads can make it easier to clean the paws and prevent such issues.

Despite these potential benefits, there are also some cons to consider. Shaving the paw pads can leave them more exposed, making them susceptible to extreme temperatures. In hot weather, the pavements and surfaces can become scorching, and without the natural layer of hair, the paw pads may burn or become irritated. Similarly, in cold weather, the lack of hair can make the paw pads more prone to frostbite. Its important to consider your dogs environment and the weather conditions before deciding to shave their paw pads.

Should I Shave My Dogs Paw Pads?

Shaving a dogs paw pads is a personal decision that should be made with careful consideration. While some people believe that shaving the paw pads can provide benefits for the dog, there are also potential risks and drawbacks to consider.

Pros of Shaving Paw Pads:

Improving traction: Some dog owners believe that shaving the fur from the paw pads can enhance their dogs traction, especially on slippery surfaces. This can potentially help prevent accidents and injuries.
Easier maintenance: Shaved paw pads may be easier to clean and maintain, as there is less hair for dirt, mud, and other debris to stick to.
Maintaining hygiene: Dog owners who regularly shave their dogs paw pads might argue that it helps to prevent the buildup of bacteria and fungus, potentially reducing the risk of infections.

Cons of Shaving Paw Pads:

Loss of protection: Dogs paw pads serve as a natural form of protection, providing cushioning and insulation. Shaving them can potentially expose the paw pads to injuries, irritations, and extreme temperatures.
Increased sensitivity: Shaving the paw pads may increase the sensitivity of the skin, making the dog more prone to discomfort and pain.
Risk of infection: While some dogs may benefit from a clean-shaven paw pad, others may develop issues such as dryness, cracking, and the potential for infections.

Conclusion:

Ultimately, the decision to shave a dogs paw pads should be made based on the individual dogs needs and circumstances. It is essential to weigh the potential benefits against the risks and consult with a veterinarian before making any changes to your dogs grooming routine. A professional opinion can provide valuable insights and guidance to ensure the health and well-being of your furry friend.

Reasons to Consider Shaving

Shaving a dogs paw pads is a decision that should be made carefully and only after consulting with a veterinarian or professional groomer. However, there are some reasons why shaving the paw pads may be beneficial:

Improved traction: Shaving the paw pads can help improve a dogs traction, especially on slippery surfaces. This can be especially helpful for dogs with long hair or breeds that have naturally smooth paw pads.
Preventing matting: If a dogs paw hair is long and prone to matting, shaving the paw pads can help prevent tangles and mats from forming. This can make grooming and maintenance easier for both the dog and the owner.
Easier nail trimming: Trimming a dogs nails can be challenging if the hair around the paw pads is long. Shaving the paw pads can provide better visibility and accessibility to the nails, making the trimming process easier and safer.
Heat reduction: Some dogs may have excessive fur around their paw pads, which can contribute to overheating. Shaving the paw pads can help cool the dog down, especially in warmer climates or during hot summer months.
Reducing the risk of foreign objects: Long paw hair can trap debris, dirt, or foreign objects, which can cause discomfort or irritation to the dog. Shaving the paw pads can help prevent these objects from getting tangled in the fur and potentially causing injury.

While there are benefits to shaving a dogs paw pads, it is important to consider the potential risks and consult with a professional before making a decision. Shaving may not be suitable for all dogs, especially those with health conditions or certain breeds that require specific grooming techniques.

Potential Benefits of Shaving

Shaving the paw pads of your dog can have potential benefits that can improve their overall health and well-being. Some of these benefits include:

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Prevention of matting: Shaving the paw pads can help prevent the accumulation of mats and tangles in the fur around the paws. This is particularly important for long-haired dog breeds.
Improved traction: With shaved paw pads, dogs can have better grip and traction on smooth surfaces, such as hardwood or linoleum floors, which can help prevent slips and falls.
Enhanced visibility: Shaving the paw pads can make it easier to detect any wounds, cuts, or foreign objects that may be trapped between the paw pads or stuck in the fur around them.
Improved hygiene: Shaving can help keep the paw pads clean by reducing the potential for mud, dirt, or debris to get trapped in the fur. This can help prevent infections and other paw-related issues.
Temperature regulation: Shaved paw pads can help your dog cool down in hot weather by allowing better heat dissipation through the pads. This can be particularly beneficial for dogs with thick fur.

While shaving the paw pads can offer these potential benefits, it is important to consider the individual needs and characteristics of your dog. It is recommended to consult with a professional groomer or veterinarian before making a decision, as they can provide specific advice based on your dogs breed, age, and overall health.

Possible Risks and Drawbacks

Skin irritation: Shaving a dogs paw pads can cause skin irritation, especially if the clippers are not used properly or if the dog has sensitive skin. Irritated skin can lead to discomfort and potentially even infection.
Injury: Shaving the paw pads can increase the risk of accidental injury. Dogs have sensitive and delicate tissues on their paw pads, and if not done by a professional groomer, shaving can result in cuts, nicks, or scrapes.
Loss of traction: A dogs paw pads provide them with natural grip and traction. Shaving the hair on the paw pads can reduce their ability to grip surfaces properly, especially on smooth or slippery surfaces. This can result in the dog having difficulty walking or running and increase the risk of slips and falls.
Increased vulnerability: By shaving the hair on the paw pads, you are removing a protective layer that helps shield the paws from extreme temperatures, rough terrain, and other potentially harmful elements. This can increase the vulnerability of the paws, leading to discomfort and potential injuries.
Impaired heat regulation: Dogs regulate their body temperature through their paws. Shaving the hair on the paw pads can potentially interfere with this natural cooling mechanism, especially in hot weather. This can lead to discomfort and overheating, especially in breeds prone to heatstroke.

In conclusion, while there may be some instances where shaving a dogs paw pads is necessary for medical reasons or to remove mats or debris, overall, there are several risks and drawbacks associated with this practice. It is important to consider these factors and consult with a professional groomer or veterinarian before making a decision.

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Alternative Care for Paw Pads

If youre hesitant about shaving your dogs paw pads, there are alternative care methods you can consider to help maintain their paw health. Here are some options:

Trimming: Instead of completely shaving the paw pads, you can trim the hair around them to keep them clean and prevent matting. This will help reduce the risk of debris getting stuck between the toes and causing discomfort.
Regular cleaning: Make it a habit to regularly clean your dogs paw pads. Use a damp cloth or gentle pet wipes to wipe away dirt, mud, or any foreign objects that may have gotten stuck between the toes. This can help prevent infections and keep the paws in good condition.
Moisturizing: To keep the paw pads moisturized, you can use pet-safe paw balms or creams. These products can help soften dry paw pads and provide a protective barrier against harsh weather conditions. Be sure to choose products specifically formulated for dogs and avoid using human moisturizers, as they can contain ingredients that are harmful to dogs.
Protective booties: If your dogs paw pads are particularly sensitive or if you live in an area with extreme temperatures or rough terrain, consider using protective booties. These can help protect the paws from hot pavement, ice, salt, or sharp objects. However, it may take some time for your dog to get used to wearing them, so be patient and gradually introduce the booties.
Regular grooming: Maintain a regular grooming routine for your dog, which includes brushing their coat and trimming their nails. Keeping your dogs overall hygiene in check can also help prevent paw pad issues.

Remember, every dog is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Its important to monitor your dogs paw pads regularly and consult with a veterinarian if you notice any signs of discomfort, redness, swelling, or persistent issues.

Consulting with a Veterinarian

If you are unsure whether or not to shave your dogs paw pads, it is always best to consult with a veterinarian. They can provide professional advice and guidance based on your dogs specific needs and health conditions. Here are some reasons why consulting with a veterinarian is important:

Expertise: Veterinarians have in-depth knowledge and experience in dealing with various dog-related issues. They can assess your dogs individual needs and provide personalized recommendations.
Health concerns: Shaving a dogs paw pads can expose them to potential risks and health issues, such as infections, injuries, and paw pad sensitivity. A veterinarian can evaluate the condition of your dogs paw pads and determine whether shaving is necessary or beneficial.
Assessment of Breed and Coat Type: Different dog breeds and coat types have unique needs. Some dogs may naturally have thicker or longer hair growth on their paw pads, which serves as protection. A veterinarian can assess your dogs breed and coat type to determine if shaving is appropriate for their specific needs.

During your consultation with a veterinarian, be sure to provide them with information about your dogs lifestyle, activity level, and any previous issues with their paw pads. This will help the veterinarian make an informed decision regarding shaving.

Remember, every dog is different, and what works for one dog may not be suitable for another. Consulting with a veterinarian ensures the well-being and safety of your furry friend.

FAQ:

Why would I want to shave my dogs paw pads?

Shaving a dogs paw pads can provide several benefits. It helps to keep the paw pads clean and free from debris, prevents matting of the fur between the toes, and can provide better traction on slippery surfaces. Additionally, shaved paw pads can make it easier to inspect for any cuts, bruises, or other injuries that may go unnoticed with long fur.

Are there any downsides to shaving my dogs paw pads?

While there are some benefits to shaving a dogs paw pads, there are also potential risks. Shaving too close to the skin can cause irritation and discomfort for the dog, especially if they have sensitive skin. Additionally, shaved paw pads may be more prone to sunburn, especially in dogs with light-colored or thin fur. Its always important to consider the individual needs and sensitivities of your dog before making any grooming decisions.

What is the best way to shave a dogs paw pads?

When shaving a dogs paw pads, its best to use a pair of grooming clippers specifically designed for pets. Start by gently holding the paw and spreading the toes apart, then carefully trim the fur between the pads. Be sure to avoid cutting too close to the skin, as this can cause irritation. Its important to go slowly and be cautious to prevent any accidents or injuries to the dog.

Can I use regular human shaving razors to shave my dogs paw pads?

No, its not recommended to use regular human shaving razors to shave a dogs paw pads. Human razors are not designed for pet grooming and can easily cause cuts or injuries to the dogs sensitive skin. Its important to use grooming clippers that are specifically designed for pets, as they are safer and more suitable for this purpose.

Should I shave my dogs paw pads regularly?

The frequency of shaving a dogs paw pads depends on several factors, including the breed, activity level, and the rate at which the fur grows. Some dogs may benefit from having their paw pads shaved every few weeks to keep them clean and prevent matting, while others may only require occasional trimming. Its important to monitor the paw pads regularly and determine the appropriate grooming schedule based on your dogs specific needs.