Mange in a Pitbull

What is Mange?

Demodectic mange is caused by tiny mites that live on your dog's body. These mites are present on all dogs, but ones with visible mange have become over run with mites. Mange can cover a single area or large area.

Mange overruns a dogs body when the dog has a weakened immune system. This can happen for a variety of reasons including stress, poor health care, lack of food, overheating and underlying health conditions. Localized mange is seen more in puppies, and tends to disappear by adulthood with proper care. Generalized mange is more difficult to overcome. It is also caused by a weakened immune system but some pit bulls are more susceptible due to their breeding. Some pit bull breeders use linebreeding--dogs are bred to relatives that are not closely related--and inbreeding to get the desired characteristics in puppies. However, in some pit bulls, a weakened immunity results.

Genetic immunity is one reason why pit bulls are frequently seen with mange. They are also a dog that is very popular and widely bred, often by breeders with unscrupulous morals. This improper breeding leads to poor health.

Mange is treated by boosting the dog's immunity through better health care and quality food. Veterinarians will use a combination of shampoos, creams and chemical dips to get rid of the mites. It's important to stay on top of treatment and follow the veterinarian's instructions so you don't have another outbreak.

Most dogs recovery from mange if they get the proper treatment. However, if your dog has a genetic immunity problem and is chronically suffering from mange, you may need to consult a veterinarian for other options.

Scarcoptic mange is also caused by Sarcoptes scabei mites. This type of mange is caught from contact with other dogs. It is similar to demodectic mange in that the mites live on the skin and cause hair loss and irritation in dogs. It is not anymore common in pit bulls than any other breed, although, mites do prefer hairless areas, so short-haired dogs tend to have more problems. This type of mange is also treated through topical shampoos, creams and dips to kill the mites and sooth the skin. In humans, scarcoptic mange is known as scabies.