Treating Yeast Infections in Dogs

Dog Breeds

Current treatments for yeast infections in dogs include administration of systemic oral drugs, application of topical medications and resolution of the underlying cause of the condition.

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Introduction

Yeast infections of the skin of dogs are common, but thankfully they are largely treatable. The most frequent culprit is Malassezia pachydermatis. Only a veterinarian can assess the infection and prescribe appropriately tailored treatments designed to eliminate yeast overgrowth, reduce the dog’s itchiness and other symptoms of discomfort, manage or eliminate secondary bacterial infections, identify and treat any predisposing factors, resolve the accompanying scaling, exudation and foul odor and reduce the chances of recurrence.

Treatment Options for Canine Yeast Infection

Current treatments for canine skin infection by Malassezia organisms include administration of systemic oral drugs, application of topical medications and resolution of the underlying cause of the condition.

In most cases, topical anti-seborrheic, antibiotic and/or anti-fungal/anti-yeast medications are recommended. Depending upon the formulation (medicated shampoos, solutions, lotions, rinses, sprays, wipes or powders), these are applied daily or several times per week.

Systemic prescription anti-fungal drugs may be warranted in severe cases of yeast infection, or in those cases that do not respond appropriately to other therapies. Currently, ketoconazole, itraconazole, fluconazole and tervinafine have been used with some success as multi-week, long-term oral anti-fungal treatments for canine Malassezia infection. In severe cases, secondary Staphylococcal bacterial skin infections often develop. If they do, oral antibiotics at an appropriate dose and for an appropriate duration may be added to the treatment regimen.

Of course, addressing and resolving the underlying cause of a yeast infection is the best way to manage its course. As Malassezia is a normal inhabitant of canine skin, the signs caused by “infection” with this yeast occur only when the organism overgrows abnormally.

Prognosis

The prognosis for dogs with cutaneous yeast infections is quite good. However, many dogs will require periodic lifelong treatments to manage future outbreaks. A veterinarian is in the best position to provide advice as to the best treatment options for dogs.

Diagnosis and Tests