Like humans, the intestine of the dogs is also a host of both beneficial and harmful microorganisms. Yeast is such a type of harmful unicellular microorganism that commonly resides in the mucous membrane of the digestive tract. A healthy immune system, and beneficial bacteria or microorganisms help to check the population of yeasts in the body. But, a change in the pH of the digestive tract or the intestine can result in the destruction of the beneficial microorganisms. This can provide an opportunity to the yeasts to multiply rapidly and release toxic substances, giving rise to several health problems. The condition becomes more serious, when a weakened immune system fails to regulate the proliferation of yeasts. Yeast infection in dogs is generally caused by two types of yeast, Candida albicans and Malassezia pachydermatis.

Causes of Yeast Infection in Canines

Any factor that can weaken the immune system, and change the pH of the gut can contribute to the uncontrolled growth of yeast. Overuse of antibiotics can result in destruction of the beneficial bacteria, giving a chance to the yeasts for rapid proliferation. Infectious diseases, dog allergies and skin diseases like seborrhea can cause irritation of the skin, and make the dogs more prone to develop this infection. Certain other important factors for yeast infection include use of steroids, canine diabetes, thyroid problems, stress, diseases that compromise the immune system, toxic gut syndrome and medications used for flea and heartworm infestation. Diet can also play an important role, as the incidence of this condition has been found to be more in dogs which are fed on grain based diet, rather than a meat based one.

Symptoms of Yeast Infection in Canines

It typically manifests in skin problems, and ear infection in dogs. Skin of the belly, neck and feet are the most commonly affected by this condition. The most common symptoms are skin irritation and development of skin sore, rash or lesion, which can remain confined to a particular part, or spread throughout the body. Itching or skin irritation will often compel the dogs to scratch or rub the affected area. Eventually, scaling, hair loss and hyper pigmentation can also be observed on the affected area. If it is an ear infection, then you can observe your dog shake its head, and scratch the ear frequently. Occasionally, an overgrowth of yeasts can manifest in gastrointestinal problems like gas and bloating and lethargy, depression and fatigue.

Treating Yeast Infection in Canines

Externally, dog infection can be treated with the application of topical medicated ointments. Miconazole cream, if applied topically on the affected area can provide considerable relief. Sulfur based or medicated shampoos like chlorhexidine can also be used for dog infection treatment. Shampoos that contain benzoyl peroxide can be excellent for giving your dog a bath, to clean the infected areas. Vinegar on the other hand, is an excellent home remedy to give your dog a cleansing bath.

Dog ear yeast infection, on the other hand, can be treated with regular cleaning, and use of ointments such as, thiabendazole, or clotrimazole. Vinegar or acetic acid can also be used to clean the ear of your dog. If the condition is very severe, then application of topical ointment may not be enough for the treatment. In such a situation, you will need the help of oral medications like ketoconazole or itraconazole. Though, they can have some side effects, they are quite effective in curing the condition. But, these oral medications should be administered only under the guidance of a veterinarian.

Along with medications, diet modification is also an important part of the treatment. To check the population of yeast, you should cut down the amount of grain in your pets' diet. Instead, give them raw meat, which is the natural dog food. Some natural or home remedies like apple cider vinegar and lemon juice can also help to regulate the number of yeasts within the digestive tract. Giving probiotic supplements is an effective way to maintain the population of beneficial microorganisms in the intestinal tract, which can help to control the proliferation of yeasts. Dietary enzymes, on the other hand, can maintain the pH of the digestive tract to prevent yeast overgrowth. To sum up, a balanced diet along with physical activities can help to prevent the recurrence of yeast infection in pets.