Dog Skin Conditions: A Visual Guide for Pet Owners

Skin issues are one of the top three reasons dogs visit the vet. This visual guide to common dog skin conditions helps you name what you're seeing, so you can act faster and tell your vet exactly what's going on.

Hot spots (acute moist dermatitis)

Red, oozing, painful patches that appear overnight. Often triggered by allergies, fleas, or moisture trapped under thick coats. Clip the surrounding fur, keep dry, see a vet for antibiotics if it spreads.

Allergic dermatitis

Itchy, red skin on belly, paws, ears and armpits. Food, pollen and flea saliva are the most common triggers. Long-term management with diet trials and vet-prescribed medication.

Yeast infections

Greasy, smelly skin, often in skin folds and ears. Looks like dark, waxy buildup. Treated with medicated shampoos and ear cleaners.

Mange (mites)

Severe itching, hair loss, crusty skin. Two types: sarcoptic (contagious, intense itch) and demodectic (puppies and immunocompromised dogs). Requires a vet diagnosis and prescription treatment.

Ringworm

Despite the name, it's a fungus, not a worm. Circular patches of hair loss with red, scaly edges. Contagious to humans. Antifungal treatment needed.

When to scan, when to call

Use BeneathFur to document changes weekly. Call a vet if you see: rapid spread, bleeding, foul smell, your dog acting unwell, or any condition that doesn't improve in 3–4 days.

Spot dog skin conditions early with BeneathFur

A 60-second AI scan flags hot spots, rashes and irritation before they spread. Try a free inspection and keep a weekly visual record of your dog's skin.