Mites on the other hand are microscopic parasites that a veterinarian will need a microscope to diagnosis. The two most common mites found on dogs are the causes of demodex mange and sarcoptic mange. Both of these cause intense itching, scratching, and hair loss. Demodex is often called red mange because it leaves the skin very red and inflamed. Sarcoptic mange is actually contagious to humans so great care should be taken when handling the dog.
Allergies are another common cause of skin problems.
A dog, like a human, can be allergic to almost anything. Flea allergies are seen on a regular basis by veterinarians with the main symptom being a dog that has chew the area between the base of the tail and the area over the rump until it is rough, raw and bleeding. Many owners will say the dog s back looks like raw hamburger meat. Owners wishing to know the exact causes of their dog s allergies can have their veterinarian do allergy testing. Once the nature of the allergy is determined, the cause can possibly be removed from the dog s every day life.