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Yeast infections in dogs are common, especially dogs with underlying conditions or compromised immune systems. While they can occur anywhere on the skin, they’re most often seen in the ears. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing discomfort and more serious complications.
In This Article
What Causes Yeast Infections in Dogs?
Yeast is a live, single-celled microorganism classified as a member of the fungus kingdom. It’s normally found on every dog’s skin, in small amounts. A yeast infection occurs when yeast builds up excessively in one area.
Yeast infections are often linked to other underlying issues such as fleas or other parasites, bacterial infections, underlying hormonal problems, and seborrhea, a dermatological condition. Allergies—whether triggered by environmental factors or food sensitivities—are also a common contributing factor.
In the ears, infections are frequently caused by trapped moisture or debris. Ear yeast infections may also stem from underlying mechanical issues such as damage to the eardrum, a polyp, or a mass or tumor in the ear canal.
Are Some Breeds More Susceptible to Yeast Infections?
Certain breeds appear more prone to yeast infections due to genetics, coat type, or ear structure. These include:
- West Highland White Terrier
- Basset Hound
- Cocker Spaniel
- Silky Terrier
- Australian Terrier
- Maltese
- Chihuahua
- Poodle
- Shetland Sheepdog
- Lhasa Apso
- Dachshund
Dogs with floppy ears, such as Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers, especially those that swim often, are at higher risk because moisture can become trapped in the ear canal. Breeds with dense hair inside the ear, like such as Miniature Schnauzers, Bichon Frise, and Shih Tzu, may also be more susceptible due to this hair limiting airflow.
Signs of Yeast Infections in a Dog’s Ears
The ear canal of a dog is L-shaped, dropping down and toward the head. This dark, warm, moist environment is the perfect setting for a yeast infection to thrive. The most common organisms found in ear infections are Candida and Malassezia species.
A dog with a yeast infection in the ears may show the following symptoms:
- Scratching or digging at the ears
- Rubbing the head on the floor, walls, or furniture
- Excessive or frequent head shaking
- Musty or unpleasant odor
- Brown, yellow, or bloody discharge
- Crusted skin or fur on the ear flap
- Swelling and redness
- Hair loss around the base of the ear
Prompt diagnosis and treatment are critical. If a yeast infection spreads deeper into the ear canal, it can cause serious pain and complications, such as loss of hearing, vestibular imbalance, or neurological damage.
Symptoms of Yeast Infections on the Paws
Paws are especially vulnerable to yeast infections because they’re frequently exposed to moisture, dirt, and allergens. Irritation can worsen as dogs lick their paws, adding more moisture and encouraging yeast growth.
Common signs include:
- Excessive licking or chewing of the feet
- Red, irritated skin
- Brown discharge around the nailbeds
- Pink salivary staining on the hair around the paws
- Hair loss
There could be many reasons a dog excessively licks their paws, including anxiety, boredom, injury, parasites, bacteria, or allergies, including food sensitivities.
How Yeast Infections Affect a Dog’s Skin
Yeast dermatitis is an inflammatory condition caused by yeast overgrowth on the skin. It can occur anywhere but is most common in warm, moist areas like skin folds or where a rash is already present. Breeds with wrinkles, such as the Chinese Shar-Pei, are particularly vulnerable.
Symptoms of yeast infections of the skin include:
- Intense itching
- Red, inflamed skin
- Greasy, crusty, or flaky patches
- Thickened skin
- Darkened skin areas
- Hair loss
- A strong, musty odor
Although a yeast infection of the skin may start in a very specific area, if left untreated, it can spread across the body and may be accompanied by a secondary bacterial infection.
How to Treat Yeast Infections in Dogs
Treating a yeast infection begins with an accurate diagnosis. A veterinarian will typically examine your dog’s history and perform diagnostic tests to confirm the cause.
Treatment depends on the location and severity of the infection. Ear infections may require topical antifungal medications, medicated drops, or oral treatments for deeper infections. Cleaning the ears thoroughly is an important part of care, and ongoing use of drying solutions may help prevent recurrence.
For paw infections, treatment may include antifungal sprays or lotions along with antibacterial products. Keeping paws dry is key, and your veterinarian may recommend using an Elizabethan collar to prevent licking during healing.
Skin infections often require a combination of topical and oral treatments. Medicated antifungal shampoos are commonly used and may need to remain on the skin for about 10 minutes per bath. In some cases, treatment may continue for several weeks. If a secondary bacterial infection is present, antibiotics may also be necessary.
How to Prevent Yeast Infections in Dogs
Yeast infections aren’t contagious to other dogs or people. Preventing them largely involves controlling moisture and managing underlying conditions.
Too much moisture is a common cause of ear infections, so thoroughly drying your dog’s ears after swimming and bathing can prevent moisture build-up. If your dog has a skin rash, musty smell, or is scratching or licking excessively, taking them to the veterinarian can prevent an infection from spreading and becoming more serious.
Long-term prevention also depends on addressing underlying issues such as allergies, hypothyroidism, or chronic skin conditions. Without managing these factors, infections are more likely to return.
Key Takeaways
- Yeast infections develop when normal skin yeast overgrows due to moisture or underlying conditions.
- Common symptoms include itching, odor, redness, and discharge in ears, paws, or skin folds.
- Treatment often involves antifungal medications, cleaning, and managing contributing factors.
- Certain breeds and dogs with floppy ears or skin folds may be more prone.
- Preventing recurrence depends on keeping areas dry and controlling underlying health issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can yeast infections in dogs go away on their own?
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Most yeast infections require treatment. Without care, they can worsen and lead to complications or spread to other areas.
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Are yeast infections in dogs contagious?
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Yeast infections are not contagious to other dogs or people. They result from an overgrowth of naturally occurring organisms on the skin.
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How long does it take to treat a yeast infection in dogs?
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Treatment length varies depending on severity and location. Some infections improve quickly, while others may require several weeks of consistent care.
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Why does my dog keep getting yeast infections?
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Recurring infections are often linked to underlying issues such as allergies, hormonal imbalances, or chronic skin conditions that need ongoing management.
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What does a yeast infection smell like on a dog?
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Yeast infections often produce a strong, musty odor, sometimes described as similar to corn chips or stale bread.
This article is intended solely as general guidance, and does not constitute health or other professional advice. Individual situations and applicable laws vary by jurisdiction, and you are encouraged to obtain appropriate advice from qualified professionals in the applicable jurisdictions. We make no representations or warranties concerning any course of action taken by any person following or otherwise using the information offered or provided in this article, including any such information associated with and provided in connection with third-party products, and we will not be liable for any direct, indirect, consequential, special, exemplary or other damages that may result, including but not limited to economic loss, injury, illness or death.