Mange most commonly seen among dogs and caused by three varieties of mites. Some types of mites which cause a mangy condition are self-limiting and may die off within a few weeks. However more serious types of mite infestations can cause the dog to bite itself ferociously and can be a disfiguring and contagious condition. Moreover, some of these pests may be so small they are difficult to detect even using a microscope and skin scrapings.

One type of mite infestation is called Demodectic and caused by the demodex mite. They are usually present in very small numbers on puppies but occasionally they can become active and and cause the condition. Puppies from thee to twelve months old might suffer from this parasite. Some of the symptoms are a thinning of the hair around the eyes and mouth and itching. They can cause localized infections or hair loss in other areas and may require treatment to control.

A large reddish brown mite is responsible for the type called Cheyletiella. It might also be called walking dandruff in some places. The name comes from the sprinkling of dandruff that appears on the head, back and ruff of the dog. This problem can be contagious but is also usually resolved within a few weeks. The parasite dies shortly after leaving the host body.

Scarcoptic mange or scabies is probably the most well known type of infestation. The mite which causes it is very tiny and may be difficult to see even if samplings are taken from multiple spots. The female mite lays eggs beneath the skin of the dog. These itch and the dog will bite and scratch the area until the skin is literally removed, trying to get to the mites. In turn when the eggs hatch they lay more eggs and the process goes on.

This mite infestation is contagious to human beings as well. A dog might give the mites to the children who in turn may pass it to playmates. In dogs the diagnosis may be based on observation because the mights are not easily found even with multiple samples of skin. There can be typical tiny bite marks near a site but normally the scratching will remove these signs.

There can be skin conditions, autoimmune problems and allergies which cause symptoms similar to mange in dogs. Because most of the mites are invisible to the naked eye it is difficult for the dog owner to know what may be causing it. A veterinarian visit is usually recommended to rule out other causes and to recommend an effective treatment for the parasites.

There are multiple means available to treat this parasitic condition. Sulfurated lime has a very strong and objectionable odor but a rinse twice or three times a week can help bring the parasite under control and eventually eliminate it. Other approaches may utilize drugs such as Selamectin or Ivermectin instead of a rinse or in addition to a topical treatment.