Dog fungal infection symptoms and treatment… Fungal infections in dogs are diseases generally caused by fungi, also known as mycetes. There are around 100 fungi that can cause skin diseases in humans and animals. However, only a few of them can lead to serious conditions; for the most part, they are generally very bothersome and take a long time to treat. Let's explore together what skin fungi are and how to treat fungal infections in dogs…

Skin fungi in dogs

Fungal infections are skin diseases that are generally divided into four groups depending on the tissue they affect:

  • Systemic or deep fungal infections, which are capable of affecting the internal organs
  • Superficial fungal infections that affect the stratum corneum, the hair and the nails
  • Fungal infections that affect the epidermis (the outer layer of the skin), the nails and the coat: ringworm
  • Fungal infections that affect the nasal cavities and respiratory tract: aspergillosis.

Fungal infections are fairly common in the canine world, as they are contagious and easily transmitted, including through indirect contact (that is, via objects). Some skin fungi are capable of surviving virtually anywhere, and their spores can remain active for years. Fortunately, they are rarely fatal (with the exception of deep infections); only if left untreated can they trigger other related conditions and disorders.

Fungal infections in dogs: deep mycoses

Deep fungal infections in dogs are capable of attacking one or more internal organs. If not treated in time, they can cause ulcers in the mucous membranes, granulomas, nodules and abscesses in the lungs, brain, spleen, liver and even in the bones. These types of fungi generally attack adult dogs, especially those with weakened immune defences as a result of treatment with corticosteroids and antibiotics, or following recovery from trauma or surgery. The danger of these dog fungi lies in their ability to travel through the body via the bloodstream and settle in vital organs.

Diagnosis is not straightforward. This is a condition that can only be identified through instrumental diagnostic and clinical investigations, such as a clinical examination, X-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans, and so on. They are often mistaken for neoplasms. It is up to the vet to distinguish between the two. The most frequent similarities between neoplasms and this type of fungal infection in dogs occur in those affecting the nasal, bone, pulmonary, ocular, cutaneous and gastrointestinal areas.

Symptoms of fungal infections in dogs

Superficial fungal infections in dogs are also known as dermatophytosis. These are fungi belonging to the genera Microsporum, Trichophyton and Epidermophyton. They are generally infectious and attack the stratum corneum, the hair and the dog's nails. Microsporum is the main cause of fungal infections in dogs, cats and rabbits. These are skin fungi that can not only be transmitted from animal to human, but also the other way around — meaning that if you have the infection, you can pass it on to your dog, cat or rabbit.

This fungal infection presents with alopecic patches (areas without hair) located mainly on the extremities of the limbs and the head, accompanied by pustules and itching in the dog. In the early stages, the infection appears as a small red spot that gradually spreads. It is essential to consult a vet promptly, before skin lesions have a chance to develop.

Ringworm in dogs: symptoms and diagnosis

Among the fungal infections affecting the outer layer of the skin, the nails and the dog's coat, ringworm stands out as being highly contagious, including to humans. Ringworm in dogs is caused by dermatophytes: these are parasites that take up residence in the skin, coat and nails. Dog ringworm generally affects young four-legged friends and adult dogs with compromised immune systems.

It presents as a circular lesion that tends to converge towards a central point. It must be stopped in time, as it can spread across the entire body. The affected areas first lose their hair, then become covered in pustules from which an oily fluid may seep. Diagnosis is carried out using a Wood's lamp with ultraviolet light, or by culturing the fungal spores. Being contagious, dog ringworm is understandably a cause for concern, but it is also true that it often clears up on its own in healthy dogs.

Aspergillosis

Among the fungal infections in dogs that affect the nasal cavities and respiratory tract, aspergillosis is particularly notable. In some cases, this skin disease can also affect the dog's entire body, with serious consequences. Nasal aspergillosis, on the other hand, is confined to the nose, ears and paranasal sinuses. The fungus responsible is Aspergillus fumigatus, and it affects dogs with medium-to-long noses more often. German Shepherds appear to be the breed most commonly affected by this condition, while flat-faced dogs (such as Pekingese, Pugs and Bulldogs) are less frequently affected.

This type of fungal infection in dogs is not easy to identify: a number of tests will need to be carried out, as a single test alone will certainly not be sufficient.

Treatment for fungal infections in dogs

To diagnose fungal infections in dogs, you will need to take your four-legged friend to the vet, who will carry out all the necessary tests to identify the type of fungus and, accordingly, the appropriate treatment. In light of all the points listed above, the time required to obtain a complete and reliable diagnosis is never less than five to ten days.

The treatment for fungal infections in dogs depends on the type of fungus, but in general it can be either topical or systemic. Topical therapy involves the use of topical products — that is, products applied directly to the affected areas — such as ointments, creams or compresses. In more severe cases, other medications to be administered orally may also be considered.