How do I get rid of bumps on my dog

Mites on dogs: How to recognize and treat these parasites

Discovering mites on dogs is always going to be alarming. On the one hand, it means these tiny arachnids are living on your pet, causing discomfort, hair loss, inflammation and itching. On the other hand, it also means theyre in your home, with the potential of infecting you and the rest of your family. Feeling grossed out all of a sudden? Weve got you.

Since mites are microscopic (theyre smaller than the width of a human hair, near-impossible to see with the naked eye and look like small black dots), they can be easily missed until you begin to notice the symptoms. Left untreated, they can cause two separate skin diseases in dogs: demodicosis and scabies.

Since mites can be passed from dog to dog either directly or indirectly, you may find you have an even larger problem on your hands if you have more than one pooch at home. In any case, although you can use the best dog shampoo to keep coats clean and smelling fresh, you shouldnt attempt to directly treat mites yourself. Home remedies are ineffective and they can also harm your dog.

Instead, regardless of which species of mite is causing your dogs skin problems, you will need an accurate diagnosis and veterinarian-prescribed treatment if you want to eliminate mites. To that end, its a good idea to check out a vet's guide to mange (the name for an itchy skin condition caused by mites) as well as the advice from our expert vet Dr Catherine Barnette below.

Catherine Barnette DVM

After graduating from the University of Florida, having gained a B.S. in Zoology and her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM), pet lover and expert Dr Barnette went on to rack up 15 years of clinical experience working as a small animal veterinarian, treating fur friends including dogs, cats, and occasional exotic patients. Dr Barnette now creates educational copy for PetsRadar and content for fellow veterinarians and pet owners, working as a freelance veterinary writer.

Types of mites on dogs

Two common mites affect dogs: Demodex canis (often referred to as demodex) and Sarcoptes scabiei (often referred to as sarcoptes).

Demodex canis

Demodex mites cause a skin condition referred to as demodicosis or demodectic mange. Demodicosis is most common in young puppies (whose immune systems are not fully developed) and in dogs that are immunosuppressed due to stress, immunosuppressive drugs, or an underlying illness.

Most young puppies are infected with a few demodex mites by their mother when they are very young but, as a puppy grows and matures, their immune system keeps these mites in check and prevents an active, overwhelming infection. In some cases, however, the dogs immune system fails to suppress the mites, allowing the mites to proliferate within the hair follicles. But demodicosis is not a contagious skin condition; your dog cannot become infected with demodex mites through contact with an infected dog.

Sarcoptes mites

Sarcoptes mites cause a condition known as scabies or sarcoptic mange. Scabies is a contagious skin disease. This infection spreads from an infected dog to an uninfected dog. In rare cases, even cats can be infected with scabies. Scabies typically spreads when two animals are in direct contact with each other, but the mites can also survive on bedding and other surfaces for several days and be passed in that way.

Can you see dog mites with the human eye?

Some animal mites can be seen with the naked eye, such as Cheyletiellia, also known as walking dandruff. This mite is most common in cats and rabbits, but it can occasionally infect dogs.

Demodex and sarcoptes, the two most common mites in dogs, however, are very small, measuring between 0.5 and 2.0mm in length. That makes them virtually invisible to the naked eye. If your dog has demodicosis or scabies, youll tend to only see evidence of the damage caused by the mites.

Symptoms

Demodicosis and scabies affect the skin of infected dogs and, since there can be significant overlap between these two conditions, its important to work with a veterinarian to obtain an accurate diagnosis.

The most common sign of canine demodex is hair loss. Demodex mites live within the hair follicle, resulting in inflammation that causes the hair to fall out. This hair loss may affect a single part of the body (localized demodex) or may be widespread (generalized demodex).

Some affected dogs also develop itching and redness of the skin. Itching and inflammation may indicate the presence of a secondary bacterial infection.

The most common sign of scabies is severe itching. The saliva and fecal matter of scabies mites trigger a severe itch response in most dogs; affected dogs may be so itchy that they seem unable to get comfortable. While scabies mites do not affect the hair follicles, affected dogs may scratch themselves so vigorously that they scratch their hair out. The skin is often red and inflamed, and dogs may be especially itchy around their ears.

Can I catch mites from my dog?

The zoonotic (animal to human) transmission potential of mites depends on which mite your dog is infected with. Demodicosis is not contagious to humans. We have our own species of demodex mite but we cannot become infected with canine demodex mites.

Scabies, in contrast, is a zoonotic parasite. You can become infected with scabies through contact with an infected dog. Fortunately, the scabies mites that live on dogs do not survive on humans for very long. (We have our own human-specific scabies mite that causes human scabies infections.)

Dog scabies can trigger intense itching in people, but this is often short-lived and will resolve within a number of days. Canine scabies does not typically cause long-lasting infections in humans.

When to see a vet

If you suspect that your dog may have mites (or any other skin condition), schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. You will be asked a number of questions in order to gain an understanding of your dogs history. Your vet will also perform a thorough physical examination, including a detailed evaluation of your dogs skin. Based on your dogs history and clinical appearance, the veterinarian will recommend appropriate diagnostic tests to determine the cause of your dogs skin issues.

Demodicosis is usually easy to diagnose using a test called a skin scrape. In this test, your vet obtains samples from the deep layers of the skin and examines them under the microscope. Seeing demodex mites on the skin scrape confirms a diagnosis of demodicosis.

A superficial (shallow) skin scrape may be beneficial in diagnosing scabies, but sarcoptes mites are not always easy to find. In some cases, repeated skin scrapes may fail to find mites in dogs infected with scabies. Therefore, scabies is often diagnosed based on clinical appearance and response to appropriate treatment.

How to get rid of mites on dogs

Your veterinarian will prescribe an appropriate treatment, depending on whether your dog is diagnosed with demodex or scabies. It includes oral medications, spot-on topical products, or medicated shampoos. If your dog has developed a secondary skin infection as a result of mites, your veterinarian may also prescribe an antibiotic to give with your dogs skin mite treatment.

If your dog is diagnosed with scabies, you can expect to see a response to treatment within a few weeks, and the mites will likely be cleared within six to eight weeks. Demodex often requires a more prolonged course of treatment. Dogs are typically rechecked once monthly during treatment (to assess response to therapy) and treatment may be continued for six months or more.

Mites are not the only living nuisances affecting dogs. You can find out how to treat a dog with worms and learn how to get rid of fleas in your home and on your pet.

21 Surefire Treatments for Schnauzer Bumps

If your Schnauzer has developed unsightly bumps, especially along his back, they are mostly likely a common Schnauzer skin condition called Comedone Syndrome. Any type of unusual growth or bump on your Schnauzers body can be worrisome, and you will want to become comfortable inspecting his skin and becoming, literally, an expert on any new developments or changes. Worrisome growths aside, Comedone Syndrome is one of the challenging aspects of being a Schnauzer parent. The condition is so common with Schnauzers that it has come to be affectionately (or not) known as Schnauzer bumps. While the bumps are essentially harmless, its important to know how to treat them.

How can I treat Schnauzer bumps? Comedone Syndrome (or, Schnauzer bumps) is common blackhead-like skin condition that affects the Schnauzer breed. While they can be unsightly, the bumps are harmless. Even though there is no complete cure, medicated shampoos, astringents, a healthy low-grain diet, and vitamin supplements can all help to treat the condition.

What Exactly are Schnauzer Bumps?

Also known as Comedone Syndrome, the Schnauzer bumpsdevelop under the surface of the skin as a result of oil buildup on yourSchnauzers pore.

The skin contains sebaceous glands that secrete an oilcalled sebum to keep the skin and hair moisturized. However, when the skinproduces excess fat, the glands are blocked, leading to the development ofSchnauzer bumps.

In short, they are the Schnauzer version of blackheads.

Comedone Syndrome, or Schnauzer Bumps is essentially harmless. In fact, it is essentially the Schnauzer version of blackheads.

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How to Deal With Schnauzer Bumps

Schnauzer bumps are one of the most annoying and persistent Schnauzer problems.

Even though they are harmless (unless they become infected), Schnauzer parents are constantly on the look for effective treatments.

Whether its to address one-time flare ups or chronic problems, the Schnauzer world is full of medical solutions, topical solutions, and nutrient or food-based solutions.

The question is, what actually works?

While the question is simple, the answer is not straightforward.

The leading cause of Schnauzer Comedone Syndrome remains unknown. However, experts believe it is a result of an inherited dysfunction of the hair follicle that causes it to become blocked with keratin and oils and then dilate.

Because the underlying cause of Schnauzer bumps is not well-understood, treatments are intended to simply manage the condition as effectively as possible.

If you are interested in more details about what Schnauzer bumps are, how they develop, and how they may be confused with other skin conditions, you will want to read my article What Are Schnauzer Bumps? (Can The Be Popped and Infected?) for some extra details.

For now, lets cover 21 effective ways to treat your Schnauzers bumps.

21 Ways to Treat Schnauzer Bumps

Unless a more serious condition or infection associated with your Schnauzers bumps develops, you will most likely just want to treat them at home.

Your veterinarian may have additional medical suggestions in the event your Schnauzers condition worsens, but realistically, you will most likely be addressing the condition yourself.

Mild cases of this condition can be treated at home using the following options:

#1 Monitor Your Schnauzer Routinely

Since Schnauzer bumps dont have a defined cure, it is essential to inspect your Schnauzers skin regularly. This may help you to keep the bumps at a minimum and eliminate the possibility of flare-ups. In addition, and more importantly, it helps to screen for more serious problems such as cancerous growths.

#2 Visit With Your Veterinarian

Schnauzer bumps can look like any number of other skin conditions or even cancerous growths, especially to an untrained eye. If you become concerned about any type of growth, or if a growth changes size, color, or texture, make an appointment with your veterinarian.

The veterinarian can scrape the growth or take a biopsy and test it. When both you and your veterinarian know the nature of your Schnauzers growths, you can decide on a treatment plan, if needed.

#3 Accutane Rx

If your Schnauzers bumps have become extremely troublesome or seem prone to infection, your veterinarian may recommend Accutane.

Miniature Schnauzers that have Comedone Syndrome are known to respond well to this drug. However, it is an expensive form of treatment and is effective in only a small percentage of Schnauzers.

#4 Antibiotics

If your Schnauzers bumps have become infected, she will definitely need to be treated by your veterinarian. Your veterinarian will most likely prescribe antibiotics for 2-3 weeks and then reassess the situation.

#5 Keep a Short Coat

Consider keeping clipping your Schnauzers coat and keeping it short. Short coats allow the sun and air to penetrate the skin, killing and preventing the growth of microorganisms.

If you usually visit a professional groomer, ask him to be cautious when grooming your Schnauzer to avoid injuring the bumps.

In addition, you could consider becoming your Schnauzers groomer. This gives you an extra opportunity to keep an eye on any developing bumps or growths. This Wahl Cordless Trimmer is ideal for those of us who take on some grooming duties at home. Its cordless, easy to handle, and it doesnt overheat. It has a solid variety of clipping lengths and is gentle enough for the face and genital areas.

#6 Bathe Your Schnauzer Frequently

Schnauzers, especially Miniature Schnauzers, tend to have slightly oily skin.

Schnauzers with bumps should bathe frequently (2-3 a week) using antimicrobial cleansing formula shampoo until you begin seeing an improvement. Bathing often with medicated shampoo prevents the growth of additional microorganisms like fungi, bacteria and protozoa while removing dirt and excess oils that can block hair follicles.

However, you will also want to keep any eye on her skin to ensure that it is not becoming too dry. If it begins flaking or she seems to be itching, decrease to once per week and adjust from there.

#7 Benzoyl Peroxide Shampoo

This formualtion cleans your Schnauzers hair follicles and pores to remove any dirt and excess oils. Using the shampoo two to three times a week should prevent new bumps from developing. Frequent bathing is essential for the first two weeks, but it depends on the severity of the problem. For subsequent weeks begin bathing once a week.

Allow the shampoo to settle in the skin for 5-10 minutes before rinsing it off. Also, consider using a soft-bristled brush to scrub your Schnauzers coat and skin to loosen debris on skin surface. Then use a natural shampoo to wash the rest of the unaffected areas of his body.

Davis Benzoyl Peroxide Medicated Dog 12 oz Shampoo is an excellent place to start. If it works for your Schnauzer, its worth buying the bulk size.

#8 Antifungal & Antibacterial Shampoo

Decreasing bacteria and fungus in your Schnauzers hair and skin can reduce or even eliminate her pesky bumps.

Curaseb Antifungal & Antibacterial Chlorhexidine Shampoo for Dogs is an effective option that approaches veterinary strength. It is designed to treat a variety of skin issues and may clear up additional problems that your Schnauzer may be experiencing.

#9 Dandruff Shampoo

Shampoos designed to treat dandruff may help to address the bumps and potentially keep the condition at bay.

Normally, I wouldnt recommend human shampoos for dogs. They can be harsh and potentially cause more problems than they solve. However, Head & Shoulders can be a good option if used only on the affected areas.

You may also want to check with your veterinarian, but bathing your Schnauzer with this type of antifungal human shampoo could help to treat this condition. This shampoo contains one percent pyrithione zinc, an antifungal, antiseborrheic and antibacterial ingredient that helps remove yeast and bacteria from the skin, as well as soothe and heal it.

Decreasing bacteria and fungus in your Schnauzers hair and skin can reduce or even eliminate the pesky bumps.

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#10 Tea Tree Shampoo

Tea Tree has long been recommended as a possible treatment. Tea Tree oil is generally safe for Schnauzers, but needs to be diluted. This is accomplished easily by using a shampoo that contains high-quality tea tree oil diluted in the shampoo formulation.

John Paul Tea Tree Shampoo for Dogs is an effective and reasonably priced option.

#11 Oatmeal Shampoo

Quality shampoos containing natural ingredients such oatmeal are known to help with many skin issues, including Schnauzer bumps. They are also as safe for Schnauzers as they are for humans.

Pro Pet Works All Natural Organic Oatmeal Pet Shampoo is a gentle formulation that may address several skin issues such as allergies and itchiness in addition to Schnauzer bumps.

#12 Witch Hazel

Using an astringent to dry up the bumps can be effective. Witch hazel is an excellent example of this kind of treatment. You only need to apply it topically on the bumps to prevent a flare-up.

#13 Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen Peroxide can also effective in treating Comedone Syndrome. Be sure to use it sparingly since it can dry out your Schnauzers skin over time.

I have found that hydrogen peroxide is especially effective if the bump is oozing or has been nicked during grooming. It tends to foam and disinfect the bump, but also tends to reduce the bump if you are consistent.

#14 Rubbing Alcohol

Like witch hazel and hydrogen peroxide, rubbing alcohol has disinfectant and drying properties. Again, use it only on the bump itself and watch for signs of excessive drying.

The primary drawback with rubbing alcohol is that if the bump has any type of opening, this could sting your Schnauzer.

#15 Vinegar

White or Apple Cider vinegar are known to address and help to decrease bacteria. Using vinegar as a topical solution is another safe approach to treating Comedone Syndrome.

#16 DIY Dry Doggie Shampoo

In addition to bathing, using medicated commercial shampoos, and applying the astringents mentioned above, making your own dry shampoo for between-bath freshness is a fun, safe, and effective idea.

A DIY dry shampoo gives you the ability to soak up some of your Schnauzers extra oil and cut down on one of the suspected causes of Schnauzer bumps.

This shampoo contains essential oils that are known to be safe for Schnauzers, however, be sure to use only high-quality oils, and sparingly, in the amounts below.

• 1 cup of cornstarch
• 1/2 cup of baking soda
• 5-10 drops each of lavender and tea tree oils
• Place in a shaker or airtight container

I rub this shampoo into our Livis coat and use it as an opportunity to massage her has I go. I also use it sparingly in her beard and then brush through the beard with this Hertzko Mat Remover Grooming Comb (my absolute favorite beard grooming tool). She smells and looks like she has just visited the groomer.

#17 Soak in the Sunshine

Allow your Schnauzer to bask in the sunshine for a few hours during the day. It helps dry up Schnauzer bumps which is why they are less likely to develop during the sunny summer months.

#18 Change your Schnauzers Diet

Sometimes the condition develops as a result of food allergies. Switching to natural options and staying away from foods that contain fish, beef, and corn may eliminate the likelihood of recurrence. One of my top choices is The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Dehydrated Grain Free Dog Food.

High-quality, raw food diet can also help manage the condition. Some Schnauzer owners have observed a dramatic decrease in the comedones after changing to a raw food diet.

Please consult with your veterinarian before making an drastic changes to your Schnauzers diet.

Allow your Schnauzer to bask in the sunshine for a few hours during the day.

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#19 Vitamin A, E, and Zinc

The supplements dont treat the condition, but may help to control it. Vitamin A supplements are particularly useful when used along with a medicated shampoo that has benzoyl peroxide. A dosage of 600-800 IU/kg should help.

A daily dose of supplements that contain vitamins A, and E, omega oils and zinc can help to keep a Schnauzer skin healthy.

Our Livi has thrived on this grain-free Multi-Vitamin Treat and Alaskan Fish Oil Chew Treat.

You may want to consult your veterinarian before administering any kind of supplements.

#20 Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids help normalize oil gland production of your Schnauzers skin and coat. In addition to the supplements I just mentioned above, this is an overall extremely healthy addition to her diet and Marine Phytoplankton Omega 3 EPA Powder is an excellent option.

Consult your veterinarian before administering any kind ofsupplements.

#21 Flea Treatment

Miniature Schnauzers with flea allergies are susceptible to Schnauzer bumps. Administering flea treatment every eight weeks may eliminate the condition.

Recovering from Schnauzer Bumps

While Comedone Syndrome is not very well understood, and there is technically no cure, rest assured that it is also not harmful to your canine friend.

However, it can cause Schnauzers to develop additional unhealthy skin issues and be challenging to diminish. Be alert to signs of infections or worrisome changes to the bumps.

With consistent monitoring combined with a variety of treatment options, your Schnauzer can live a long and comfortable life with the condition. As you experiment with the options above, you may be able to keep her bumps completely under control.

And finally, from one pet parent to another, discover my all-time favorite resources designed to cover your every Schnauzer need. Ive done the legwork for you so you can spend more time with the people and fur friends in your life.

A portion of all profit earned on this site is donated to Pet Partnerswhose mission is to improve human health and well-being through the human-animal bond.They train and register pets to become therapy animals,and have local chapters in many states.