What are Mites?
Mites are tiny eight-legged parasites, usually less than 1 mm in size, that can live on or burrow into a dog’s skin. There are several different types of mites that affect dogs, including:
- Sarcoptic mange mites – Cause intense itching, hair loss, and crusting of the skin.
- Demodectic mange mites – Live in the hair follicles and typically only cause issues in puppies or dogs with weakened immune systems.
- Cheyletiella mites – Live on the skin surface and cause dandruff and itching.
- Otodectes mites – Live in the ears and cause severe itching, dark crumbly discharge, and head shaking.
- Trombicula mites – Cause inflammation and itching on the skin.
Mites can affect various parts of a dog’s body, but are often found on the ears, elbows, armpits and paws. Common symptoms of a mite infestation include:
- Intense itching and scratching
- Hair loss or bald patches
- Scabs and skin irritation
- Crusting of the skin
- Redness and inflammation
Severe mite infestations can cause infections, anemia, and hair loss over large portions of the body. Puppies, elderly dogs, and dogs with weakened immune systems are most susceptible.
Causes and Risk Factors for Mites in Dogs
There are several ways dogs can become infected with mites:
- Direct contact with an infected animal – Mites easily spread between dogs that are in close contact. Dogs can also get mites from wildlife.
- New environments – Dogs that go to kennels, dog parks, shelters, or groomers are at higher risk of picking up mites from contaminated environments.
- Weakened immune system – Dogs that have underlying health conditions or are under stress may be more prone to mite infestations.
Certain dog breeds are more susceptible to mites, including:
- Terriers
- Old English sheepdogs
- German shepherds
- Labrador retrievers
- Shar-peis
Puppies and senior dogs also tend to be more vulnerable. Mites can develop resistance to medications over time, making repeated infestations more likely.
Proper hygiene and limiting interactions with potentially infected dogs can help reduce risk. However, mites can be challenging to prevent completely since they spread so easily between canines.
Dangers and Effects of Mite Infestations
Mite infestations can cause several dangerous effects in dogs. The most common effect is skin irritation that leads to scratching, licking, and infections. According to Merck Veterinary Manual, “The mites cause irritation of the skin, resulting in itching, rubbing, and scratching. This can lead to a condition called ‘mange,’ characterized by hair loss, inflammation, and secondary skin infections” (1). Additionally, some mites like demodectic mange mites burrow into the skin and cause infections, thickening of the skin, and hair loss (2).
Certain types of mites like ear mites, fur mites, and tropical rat mites will bite and feed on blood. This can lead to anemia in heavy infestations. The discomfort and itching from mites often causes behavioral changes in dogs, making them restless and agitated. Dogs may lick, chew and scratch excessively, causing self-trauma. And the open wounds provide an entry point for bacteria, leading to secondary skin infections (1). Clearly, a mite infestation should be addressed quickly to alleviate discomfort and prevent long-term skin and health issues in dogs.
Sources:
(1) https://www.merckvetmanual.com/dog-owners/skin-disorders-of-dogs/mite-infestation-mange,-acariasis,-scabies-in-dogs
(2) https://nexgard.com.au/dog-parasites/mites/mites-on-dogs
Diagnosing Mite Infestations in Dogs
If mange is suspected, your veterinarian will perform a physical examination of your dog’s skin, including collecting skin scrapings for examination under a microscope [1]. Taking samples is a quick and usually painless procedure. The skin scrapings allow the veterinarian to closely inspect the skin and hair for any presence of mites.
Some veterinary clinics may also collect a stool sample to check for mites. Your vet will look at the sample under the microscope to identify any mites present. Mites can be diagnosed by their size, shape and identifying features.
A skin scraping exam under the microscope is the main way vets diagnose mite infestations. They will look for the presence of mites, eggs, or mite fecal matter which all indicate an active infestation.
Conventional Mite Treatments for Dogs
According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, veterinarians typically recommend conventional treatments for killing and preventing mites in dogs, including:1
- Medicated dips – These full-body dips contain insecticides that kill mites on contact. Some common active ingredients are amitraz, pyrethrins, or organophosphates.
- Oral medications – Drugs like ivermectin, milbemycin, or moxidectin given orally can kill mites by traveling through the bloodstream.
- Antibiotics – If secondary skin infections occur, antibiotics may be prescribed to control bacterial overgrowth and prevent sepsis.
- Topical flea & tick prevention – Monthly spot-on or collar treatments containing chemicals like fipronil, imidacloprid or selamectin help repel and kill parasites.
It’s important to complete the full course of conventional treatment as prescribed by a vet to fully eliminate the mite infestation.
Can Baking Soda Kill Mites in Dogs?
Baking soda is often touted as a home remedy for killing mites and other parasites on dogs. The proposed mechanism is that baking soda dries out the mites and causes them to die. However, there is no scientific evidence that proves baking soda’s efficacy for killing dog mites.
Much of the support for baking soda is based on anecdotal evidence. Some dog owners claim that applying a baking soda solution to their dog’s skin or fur has helped eliminate mites. The typical recipe is to mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with 1 cup of warm water, soak a cotton ball in the mixture, and apply it to affected areas. The solution may need to be reapplied daily for 1-2 weeks.
However, other dog owners report trying baking soda without success. With no controlled studies, it’s hard to know if these failures are due to using baking soda incorrectly or if it simply doesn’t work on some types of mites.
Overall, there is not yet reliable evidence that baking soda reliably kills mites in dogs. It appears to be a low-risk home remedy to try, but should not replace medical treatments if a severe infestation exists. As with any new treatment, consult your veterinarian before applying baking soda to your dog’s skin.
Sources:
Effective Natural Remedies to Kill Fleas, Ticks and Mites in Dogs
Using Baking Soda on Dogs Safely
While baking soda can be an effective home remedy for treating mites in dogs, it’s important to use it safely. Here are some tips for using baking soda on dogs:
Dilute the baking soda in water before applying it to your dog’s coat. Mix about 1 teaspoon of baking soda per 1 cup of water. This helps reduce skin irritation.
Avoid getting baking soda near your dog’s eyes, nose and mouth. Rinse it off these areas immediately if contact occurs.
Thoroughly rinse your dog’s coat and skin after an application of diluted baking soda solution. This prevents ingestion and residue buildup.
Monitor your dog for signs of skin irritation after using baking soda, such as redness, itching or dry patches. Discontinue use if irritation develops.
Do not use baking soda as a standalone treatment for mites. Combine with other remedies and veterinarian-recommended medicated shampoos or dips for effective treatment.
As with any remedy, check with your veterinarian before using baking soda on your dog. Follow product instructions and monitor your dog closely to avoid toxicity. According to The Spruce Pets, baking soda can be toxic to dogs if large quantities are ingested1. Keep it safely stored away from your pet.
Other Home Remedies for Dog Mites
In addition to baking soda, there are some other home remedies that may help treat a mite infestation in dogs. Some popular natural options include:
Apple cider vinegar – Adding apple cider vinegar to your dog’s bath water can help kill mites. Mix 1⁄2 cup of apple cider vinegar with 1⁄2 cup of Borax and warm water (https://wagwalking.com/treatment/natural-mange-remedies). The acetic acid in vinegar can help repel and kill mites.
Essential oils – Oils like tea tree oil, neem oil, and clove oil have natural pesticidal properties. Dilute a few drops in water and apply as a spray or add to your dog’s bath to help kill mites (https://www.holistapet.com/blogs/home-remedies-for-dogs/canine-mange).
Coconut oil – Rubbing coconut oil into your dog’s skin can help moisturize, soothe, and smother mites. The lauric acid has anti-inflammatory effects.
Colloidal oatmeal baths – An oatmeal bath can help relieve itchy skin caused by mites. The oatmeal has soothing properties that can provide relief.
When to See a Veterinarian
If your dog is showing signs of a persistent mite infestation, it’s important to make an appointment with your veterinarian. Some signs that indicate it’s time to seek veterinary care include:
- Persistent itching or scratching
- Significant hair loss or bald patches
- Skin changes like redness, scabbing, or sores from scratching
- Skin infections in areas affected by mites
- Lethargy, changes in appetite, or other behavior changes
- Pale gums, weakness, or rapid breathing which may indicate anemia from blood-sucking mites like demodex.
Veterinary exams can help diagnose the type of mite infestation and severity through skin scrapings, tape tests, or bloodwork. Your vet will recommend the most effective topical or oral medication to kill the mites and provide relief from irritating symptoms. Leaving mite infestations untreated allows the parasites to multiply, leading to worsening skin irritation, infections, and hair loss. Consulting a vet promptly when mites persist despite home remedies can help cure your dog’s mite problem and restore their skin health.
For more information, visit: https://www.merckvetmanual.com/dog-owners/skin-disorders-of-dogs/mite-infestation-mange,-acariasis,-scabies-in-dogs
Preventing Mite Infestations
There are several ways to help prevent mite infestations in dogs:
Frequent grooming and baths can help keep mite populations down. Bathing dogs regularly with medicated shampoos containing ingredients like oatmeal, aloe, neem oil, or tea tree oil can help repel and kill mites (source). Brushing and combing also removes dead skin and hair where mites like to live.
Washing your dog’s bedding frequently in hot water is important to kill any mites or eggs hiding out. Mites can survive for several days without a host, so thorough and regular laundering of bedding is key (source).
Treating your yard and outdoor areas for fleas, ticks and other pests helps reduce sources of mite infestations. Talk to your vet about safe and effective pest control methods for the areas your dog frequents (source).
Avoid contact with strays or animals showing signs of mange or skin disease, which could pass mites to your dog. Check any new animals for mites before introducing them to your home and pets (source).
Routine vet checks allow early detection and treatment of mites before infestations get out of control. Your vet can recommend prevention and examine your dog for signs of mites during annual wellness exams (source).