The skin is the largest single organ of the body. It also provides an area full of nerve endings that transmit tactile feelings to the brain. If a dog reaches up to sniff a hot BBQ pit, it is these nerve endings that will make him realize that hot hurts and to leave it alone. When the skin is healthy, it is smooth and supple while being free of flakes, irritation, parasites, sores, lumps or hair loss. Common signs of possible skin problems are intense itching, scabs or actual bleeding, swelling, redness and inflammation, foul smelling discharges, dandruff, patches or overall hair loss, discoloration and lumps.
Parasites are the most common source of skin problems and irritation.
Due to the scratching and rubbing a dog will do to relieve the itch, many secondary problems may arise. Fleas and ticks are the easiest parasites to see and if not eradicate, at least control. 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.