Severe cases of sarcoptic mange that result in secondary infections from bacteria or yeast can cause a white, crusty surface to form on the dog’s irritated skin, though this does not occur in all cases. [2] X Research source In addition, dogs with severe secondary infections will also often suffer weight loss, run a fever, and/or have enlarged lymph nodes.
This skin irritation can cause the dog to scratch at its skin, which can sometimes lead to more serious infections. [5] X Expert Source Ray Spragley, DVMVeterinarian Expert Interview. 29 June 2021. These secondary infections will lead to similar symptoms as those in sarcoptic mange cases — fever, weight loss, swollen lymph nodes, etc. [6] X Research source
Note that humans cannot get the type of mites that cause demodectic mange.
If you’re worried about the possibility of getting bitten by your dog’s mange-causing mites, you may want to wear disposable gloves for this test.
This test (called the pinnal-pedal reflex test) works because, in the vast majority of sarcoptic mange cases, mites are present in and around the dog’s ears. When you rub the dog’s ear, it feels the irritating itching sensation caused by the mites and tries to scratch itself.
Although both sarcoptic and generalized demodectic mange can lead to itching, it’s important to distinguish the two — the mites that cause sarcoptic mange lead to immediate, severe itching, while the mites that cause demodectic mange cause patches of irritated skin to develop, which then may become itchy. [11] X Research source While sarcoptic mange itself can’t kill a dog, the dog’s health can deteriorate quickly if it gets a serious infection or stops eating or sleeping, so, in this case, immediate veterinary care may be needed. This should be obvious — a dog with a bad case of sarcoptic mange will appear profoundly unhealthy. Sarcoptic mange is sometimes referred to as scabies. [12] X Research source Demodectic mange may also be called Demodex. [13] X Research source
Localized demodectic mange is most common in puppies. In about 90% of cases, localized demodectic mange disappears on its own without treatment in a month or two. [14] X Research source However, in a fraction of cases, the disease may develop into the more serious generalized demodectic mange. While dogs do not inherit demodectic mange per se, is thought that those that develop generalized demodectic mange usually inherit their weakness to the disease genetically. [15] X Research source
Cases of sarcoptic mange require a veterinarian more urgently than demodectic mange. Because the severe itching from sarcoptic mange can make a dog miserable (and, more importantly, quickly lead to health problems), early diagnosis and treatment is essential. The exception to this general rule is for very minor cases of localized demodectic mange. Because these usually clear up on their own, a veterinarian is not always necessary, though you may want to consult with one for peace of mind anyway, and to rule out other conditions.
For fabric objects, launder with bleach or borax and dry at the highest possible setting. For hard objects and surfaces, use a hospital-grade disinfectant. Repeat daily as needed until the mange subsides.
It’s worth noting, however, that some veterinarians will recommend against breeding dogs that have had any sort of demodectic mange. [17] X Research source If you’re unsure of whether it’s wise to breed your dog, talk to a vet who knows you and your dog for advice. Usually, a vet like this will be able to recommend a course of action that takes your needs into account as well as the health of any future puppies.
Note that no form of demodectic mange is thought to be contagious to other animals or humans. In very rare cases, the disease may be contagious to other dogs. However, quarantine measures usually aren’t taken even when symptoms are severe. [19] X Research source
A dog could catch mange from an object that has recently been used on an infected animal, such as a blanket or towel. Likewise, if grooming salons do not practice regular sanitation of clippers, towels, and caging, this could also lead to the spread of the disease. [21] X Research source Since wild animals like coyotes and foxes can also get sarcoptic mange, exercising in wildlife areas may also expose your dog to scabies.
