Mange in Dogs: Sarcoptic vs Demodectic

Mange is common in Indian dogs, particularly rescues, and the two main types need different handling.

Sarcoptic (scabies)

Intensely itchy, typically starting at ear margins, elbows and belly. Highly contagious between dogs and can cause a temporary itchy rash in humans.

Demodectic

Caused by a mite most dogs carry harmlessly; it overgrows when immunity is low. Usually patchy hair loss with little itch. Localised cases in puppies often resolve; generalised cases indicate an underlying problem.

Diagnosis

Deep skin scrapings. Sarcoptic mites are often not found even when present, so treatment is sometimes trialled on clinical suspicion.

Treatment

Modern isoxazoline products treat both effectively. Treat in-contact dogs for sarcoptic cases, and wash bedding thoroughly. Secondary bacterial infection usually needs treating alongside.