How to Ensure Your Dog Lives Mites-Free

Mites are parasites so tiny that it’s hard to spot one with your eyes, especially if your pup is fluffy. Despite their sizes, the harm they cause compromises your dog’s health and comfort. We all want our dogs to enjoy happy, healthy, and comfortable lives free from mites, and one way to achieve that is to learn how to manage and prevent their infestations. Here is all you need to know.
The Sarcoptic Mange Mites

These mites, called scabies mites, are highly contagious parasites. When they burrow into the skin, they cause severe itching, lethargy, depression, hair loss, and other symptoms. Your dog can get these mites from other animals and spread them to other dogs and humans.
The Demodex Mites

Almost all dogs have Demodex mites living on them. However, those likely to be affected by these mites are those who can’t defend themselves from parasites, like dogs with skin problems and puppies. These mites tend to focus on areas around the eyes and feet, and their symptoms include pus-filled spots and greasy coats.
The Ear Mites

Ear mites inhabit dogs’ ear canals and cause them pain and itchiness. They also discharge wax, which may be black or brownish. Close contact with infected animals is enough to spread ear mites, and if left untreated, they may lead to other infections or hearing loss.
The Cheyletiella Mites

These mites are also called “walking dandruff” because you can see them moving on the skin during severe infestation. Humans can get these mites from their pets. Visible white flakes on the coat and skin are a common sign of these mites in dogs. The mites might make some dogs’ back skin crusty, flakey, and scaly.
Mites Cause Excessive Scratching

One of the most common signs of a mite infestation is excessive scratching. Your dog will scratch to feel comfortable when it feels the intense itching caused by mites. Excess scratching is harmful to dogs, as it can damage the skin or cause another infection.
Mites Cause Redness and Inflammation

Mites infestations cause a dog’s skin to turn red and swell up in response to the irritation. Since the dog will constantly scratch and even bite itself to alleviate the discomfort, it might be the beginning of some skin problems. If you aren’t attentive, you may perceive this irritation as an allergic reaction while it is actually a mite infestation.
Infestations Lead to Hair Loss and Flaky Skin

An attack from Demodex mites can lead to hair loss and flakey skin. Their presence disrupts normal skin function, which also disrupts the normal hair growth pattern. The result? Thinning hair, scaling, and flakes. These symptoms affect your dog’s appearance and also cause discomfort.
The Irritation Causes Behavioral Changes

Because mite infestations make dogs uncomfortable, they may start to behave strangely. They may become restless and irritable or start barking, pacing, or continually rubbing against surfaces. You should take this sign seriously, especially if it comes with another symptom.
Prevent Mite Infestations With Regular Grooming

Grooming your dog regularly won’t give some mites a place to live. You remove loose hair, debris, and potential mite eggs as you brush your dog’s coat. Also, bathing it with a mild, vet-approved shampoo keeps the skin clean and healthy.
Provide a Clean Environment

Your dog’s resting, playing, and feeding spots should always be clean. Occasionally, use hot water to wash your dog’s bedding and toys to kill mites and their eggs. Also, frequently vacuum your home as it removes mites and allergens from carpets and furniture.
Always Wash Your Hands After Handling Other Pets

After handling animals whose mite-infestation status you are unaware of, for example, stray dogs, thoroughly wash your hands and change clothing before holding, playing with, or even touching your dog. This way, you’ll avoid accidentally transferring mites to your dog.
Plan Routine Vet Visits

Vets exist to help you detect mites early and prevent them from harming your dog’s health, so take vet visits seriously. Your vet will perform routine skin exams, recommend preventive treatments, and give you specific guidance on keeping your dog healthy.
Provide a Healthy Diet for Your Pet

One sure way to keep your dog’s immunity strong is to feed them a well-balanced diet. With strong immunity, dogs are better at fighting the infections mites cause. Combine high-quality food that meets your dog’s nutritional needs with supplements recommended by your vet.
Visit The Vet for Treatment During Infestations

The vet is always your best option for treating mite infestations. They can detect which mite is responsible for your dog’s health problem and its severity and devise practical solutions. Your dog may be treated with medicated shampoos or dips, and prescription meds may also be used.
Should You Treat My Dog Yourself?

There are several home remedies for mite infestations, but they may not be practical or safe for your dog if you aren’t knowledgeable about them. It would help to talk to your vet before trying any home remedy. They may include apple cider vinegar, honey, or olive oil.