Dog mites can be a great cause of distress for dogs and their owners. From the itchy skin to hair falling out, there really is no upside to an infested dog. In fact, the nickname “mangy mutt” actually comes from a type of dog mite that causes mange. So, just what are dog mites?

Think of dog mites as a very tiny insect. In fact, they are an eight legged creature that is related to spiders. Some varieties are so small that you will not be able to see them without the aid of a microscope. Yet, these tiny insects can do a world of damage to your poor pet. Mites come in a variety of species such as Sarcoptic, Demodectic mites, and Cheyletiella.

Sarcoptic mites infect the dog and cause a great deal of intense itching when the female mite burrows under skin the skin of the dog to lay her eggs. As the eggs hatch the baby mites soon mature and also burrow under the skin to lay eggs in as little as three week. Sarcoptic mites can also be transferred to humans although their eggs do not hatch on humans so their infection is limited in time to about three weeks. The damage these mites leave behind on your dog can take weeks or even months to fully recuperate from.

Demodectic mites are commonly found in a puppy’s skin pores but usually do not cause damage or infection. Some dogs though are thought to have a lower immune response to them which can cause them to multiply and do damage. These mites are treated with medicated baths and often an insecticide topically applied. Minor infestations may not require treatment as many dogs immune systems can deal effectively with this type of mite.

Cheyletiella is often referred to as walking dandruff on dogs. This might is large reddish creature and can be seen under a magnifying glass. It usually affects puppies. This type of mite is highly contagious but also very short lived. The mite dies shortly after leaving its host. Mild itching is the most significant problem with this particular mite.