Demodicosis / Demodectic mange
Also known as: Demodex-Räude · Demodikose · Demodectic mange · Haarbalgmilbenentzündung · Rote Räude · …
Overview
What it is
Demodicosis is a skin disease caused by an overgrowth of microscopic Demodex mites that naturally live inside a dog's hair follicles. While these mites are normally harmless, an inherited or acquired weakness in the immune system can allow them to multiply uncontrollably. This overgrowth leads to inflammation and damage to the skin barrier.
How it presents
Owners will typically notice patchy hair loss, redness, and scaling, which often starts on the face or front legs during puppyhood or young adulthood. In severe cases, these bald patches can spread across the entire body and develop secondary infections.
Treatment
The condition is highly treatable, with management ranging from a short course of antiparasitic medication to longer-term therapy for chronic cases. Diagnosis is confirmed via a deep skin scraping, and treatment costs typically range from 150 to 1500 EUR.
How it's tested
Tiefes Hautgeschabsel und mikroskopischer Milbennachweis(Hautgeschabsel)
Primary testClinical examDie Diagnose erfolgt klinisch durch ein tiefes Hautgeschabsel oder ein Trichogramm mit anschließender mikroskopischer Untersuchung zum Nachweis von Demodex-Milben.
Issuing body: vet
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Affected breeds
19 of 19 breeds
Mandatory testAmerican Staffordshire Terrier
RecommendedAfghan Hound
RecommendedAmerican Pit Bull Terrier
RecommendedBeagle
RecommendedBoston Terrier
RecommendedBull Terrier
RecommendedChihuahua
RecommendedDachshund
RecommendedDobermann
RecommendedPug
RecommendedRottweiler
RecommendedShar-Pei
RecommendedStaffordshire Bull Terrier
OptionalBoxer
OptionalDalmatian
OptionalGerman Shepherd
OptionalGreat Dane
OptionalMiniature Bull Terrier
OptionalOld English Sheepdog
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Demodicosis / Demodectic mange?
Demodicosis is a skin disease caused by an overgrowth of microscopic Demodex mites that naturally live inside a dog's hair follicles. While these mites are normally harmless, an inherited or acquired weakness in the immune system can allow them to multiply uncontrollably. This overgrowth leads to inflammation and damage to the skin barrier.
How is Demodicosis / Demodectic mange tested?
Tests currently in our database: Tiefes Hautgeschabsel und mikroskopischer Milbennachweis.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: American Staffordshire Terrier, Afghan Hound, American Pit Bull Terrier, Beagle, Boston Terrier, Bull Terrier, Chihuahua, Dachshund.