Owners of 8 dog breeds told to watch out this autumn

With elevated humidity levels and a heightened allergen count, autumn is the peak period for skin infections in dogs. Heat and dampness can accumulate against a dog’s skin, particularly within folds, between the paws and under dense fur coats, creating the optimal conditions for yeast to thrive.

As autumn arrives in the UK, eight dog breeds face increased susceptibility to a prevalent skin condition known as yeast dermatitis, triggered by excessive growth of Malassezia – a yeast variety that naturally lives on a dog’s skin.

While Malassezia typically resides on our four-legged companion’s skin, disruption to the natural ecosystem due to another dermal issue can prompt Malassezia yeast to multiply excessively and trigger a secondary infection. It occurs more frequently in warm, humid environments and bodily regions where warmth commonly becomes confined, including skin folds and between the paws.

Dr Tanya Leslie, Veterinary Advisor for DOUXO, has cautioned dog owners of eight specific breeds to be extra vigilant and display heightened awareness this autumn, emphasising that identifying the preliminary indicators of a skin infection can enable owners to pursue treatment before their dog’s discomfort intensifies.

While any dog may develop a skin infection, breeds with lengthy dense coats, excessive skin folds or inherently delicate and sensitive skin barriers demonstrate greater vulnerability.

Bulldogs, Pugs, Basset Hounds and Chinese Shar-Peis

These breeds possess pronounced skin folds which can trap heat and moisture, establishing ideal conditions for yeast and bacteria to flourish. Areas surrounding the face, neck and tail are especially vulnerable to irritation.

West Highland Terriers and Boxers

Westies and Boxers both carry a genetic predisposition to skin allergies, which compromise the skin barrier and increase infection risk.

Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers

Retrievers are also amongst the breeds more prone to having a genetic susceptibility to allergies, so continual paw licking and chewing at irritated areas can lead to bacterial overgrowth. Their thick coats retain moisture against the skin, especially following swimming, bathing, or walks in wet weather, which can exacerbate the issue.

Identifying the signs of skin infections

Common symptoms dog owners should watch for include:.

– Red, inflamed or itchy skin that may feel greasy to the touch.

– Sticky discharge under the fur.

– Crusty or flaky skin, sometimes with patches of hair loss.

– Dark or black spots on the skin.

– Reddish, brown discolouration around the claws.

– A strong, unpleasant odour coming from affected skin.

– Persistent licking or biting of the area.

Irritation vs Infection

Not every odour or area of irritated skin automatically indicates your dog has an infection, but understanding what is typical for your pet can make it considerably easier to recognise when something has altered. A faint scent from skin folds can be perfectly normal and easily controlled through regular cleaning, but a pungent or offensive odour might indicate an infection. Typical ‘doggy’ smells ought to vanish after bathing without reappearing straight away.

Healthy skin inside folds should typically appear pale pink and dry. Skin that appears inflamed or greasy may need veterinary examination. Your dog will frequently display indicators of discomfort, such as continuous scratching, licking or gnawing at the affected area, which clearly suggests a deeper issue.

Dr Tanya Leslie explains how to maintain your dog’s skin health: “Controlling underlying allergies, if present, is an important first step in the prevention of yeast overgrowth. Working with your vet to find the best treatment plan for your dog is important, knowing that this plan usually relies on several interventions at the same time and can evolve over time.

“Keeping your dog’s fur trimmed and clean, and ensuring they are dried properly after contact with water will help prevent flare-ups. Using products with modern, proven ingredients will also make a big difference.”

The dog expert adds: “If your dog has skin folds, then maintenance hygiene of these skin folds is vital to keep them comfortable and reduce the risk of problems developing.”