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Dog Skin and Coat Disorders

Irritating dog skin conditions are among the most common medical problems that dogs can suffer. Scratching usually begins mildly and is most frequently caused by parasite such as fleas. continued scratching damages the skin, allowing bacteria to multiple.

The consequent inflammation stimulates the dog skin glands into producing excess discharge and odor. Routine grooming and parasite control prevent these complications from occurring. As a consequence of selective breeding, some breeds, such as the Cocker spaniel, Golden retriever, and West Highland White Terrier, have a higher-than-average incidence of skin and coat disorders, while others, such as poodles, have a very low incidence.