The short version
In dogs, seborrhea is a skin disease that is characterized by a defect in keratinization or cornification of the outer layer of the skin, hair follicles, or claws. Keratinization is the process in which the protective outer layer of skin is being constantly renewed by new skin cells. Seborrhea results in increased scale formation, occasionally excessive greasiness of the skin and hair coat, and often secondary inflammation and infection.
Primary seborrhea is an inherited skin disorder. It is seen most frequently in American Cocker Spaniels, English Springer Spaniels, Basset Hounds, West Highland White Terriers, Dachshunds, Labrador and Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherd dogs. Among dogs with seborrhea, there is usually a family history of the disorder, suggesting genetic factors are involved. The disease begins at a young age (usually less than 18 to 24 months) and progresses throughout the dog’s life.
Signs and Diagnosis
A diagnosis of primary seborrhea is reserved for dogs in which all possible underlying causes of seborrhea have been excluded. Most dogs with seborrhea have the secondary form of the disease. The most common underlying causes are hormonal disorders and allergies. The goal is to identify and treat these underlying causes. Allergies are more likely to be the underlying cause if the age of onset is less than 5 years. Hormonal disorders are more likely if the seborrhea begins in middle aged or older dogs. A lack of itching helps to exclude allergies, scabies, and other itching diseases. If itching is minimal, your veterinarian will seek to exclude hormonal disorders, other internal diseases, or other primary skin diseases. If itching is significant, allergies, scabies, and fleas will also be considered by your veterinarian.
Other important considerations in making a diagnosis include the presence of excessive urination, excessive drinking, heat-seeking behavior, abnormal estrous cycles, skin infections, the season, diet, response to previous medications, fungi or bacteria present, and the environment.
Your veterinarian will give your pet a thorough physical examination, including internal organ systems and a comprehensive skin examination. This is the first step in identifying the underlying cause. The skin examination documents the type and distribution of the abnormalities; the presence of hair loss; and the degree of odor, scale, oiliness, and texture of the skin and hair coat. The presence of follicular boils, papules (pimples), crusts, and other bumps usually indicates the existence of a superficial pyoderma (bacterial infection). Darkening indicates a chronic skin irritation (such as infection or inflammation), and skin thickening indicates chronic itching. Yeast infection will always be considered during this process.
Treatment
Treatment is needed to keep your dog comfortable while the underlying cause is identified and secondary skin diseases are corrected. In addition to treating any secondary infections with antibiotics, medicated shampoos are often used to help control the seborrhea and speed the return of the skin to a normal state. Medicated shampoos can decrease the number of bacteria and yeast on the skin surface, the amount of scale and sebum present, and the level of itching. They may also help normalize skin cell replacement.
Follow the advice of your veterinarian regarding the most appropriate medicated shampoo for your pet with seborrhea. The selection of a medicated shampoo is based on hair coat and skin scaling and oiliness. Never use a shampoo formulated for people without the consent of your veterinarian.
Antibiotics are typically recommended for 3 to 4 weeks for bacterial skin infections. Fungal infections are common and are treated with antifungal medications.
Frequently asked questions
Seborrhea dog?
The Merck Veterinary Manual covers this in the article linked on this page. In dogs, seborrhea is a skin disease that is characterized by a defect in keratinization or cornification of the outer layer of the skin, hair follic… If your dog is unwell, contact your veterinarian — this page is educational, not a diagnosis.
Seborrhea dog treatment?
The Merck Veterinary Manual covers this in the article linked on this page. In dogs, seborrhea is a skin disease that is characterized by a defect in keratinization or cornification of the outer layer of the skin, hair follic… If your dog is unwell, contact your veterinarian — this page is educational, not a diagnosis.
Seborrhea dog shampoo?
The Merck Veterinary Manual covers this in the article linked on this page. In dogs, seborrhea is a skin disease that is characterized by a defect in keratinization or cornification of the outer layer of the skin, hair follic… If your dog is unwell, contact your veterinarian — this page is educational, not a diagnosis.