What are the small mites found on a dog? - briefly
The primary microscopic parasites on dogs are Demodex canis, a follicular mite, and Sarcoptes scabiei, the agent of scabies; Otodectes cynotis, an ear mite, is also common. All three are microscopic, live on the skin or in the ear canal, and require specific treatment.
What are the small mites found on a dog? - in detail
Small arthropods that infest dogs include several mite species, each with distinct biology and clinical impact.
Sarcoptes scabiei (sarcoptic mange) burrows into the epidermis. Adult females lay 2‑5 eggs per day, which hatch in 3‑4 days. Larvae develop through protonymph, tritonymph, and adult stages within the skin, completing the cycle in 10‑14 days. Intense pruritus, erythema, and crusted lesions appear, often beginning on the ears, elbows, and abdomen. Diagnosis relies on skin scrapings examined under microscopy; treatment typically involves topical acaricides (e.g., selamectin, moxidectin) or systemic ivermectin.
Demodex canis (demodicosis) resides in hair follicles and sebaceous glands. Females produce 10‑30 eggs; development from egg to adult takes 7‑10 days. Infestation may be localized (patchy alopecia, erythema) or generalized (diffuse hair loss, pustules, secondary infection). Diagnosis requires deep skin biopsies or tape impressions. Management includes macrocyclic lactones (e.g., milbemycin oxime) and hygiene measures to reduce bacterial overgrowth.
Cheyletiella yasguri (walking dandruff) lives on the surface of the epidermis, feeding on keratin. Adult females lay 2‑4 eggs daily; the life cycle spans approximately 10 days. Owners notice flaky, moving scales that may cause mild itching. Microscopic examination of skin scales confirms presence. Treatment consists of weekly applications of fipronil or selamectin for several weeks.
Otodectes cynotis (ear mite) inhabits the external auditory canal. Females deposit 2‑3 eggs per day; larvae mature to adults within 7‑10 days. Signs include otic discharge, erythema, and head shaking. Otoscopic inspection reveals moving mites. Topical acaricides (e.g., pyrethrins, selamectin) or systemic treatments eradicate the infestation.
Effective control requires accurate identification, appropriate drug selection, and environmental decontamination where applicable. Regular veterinary examinations and preventive acaricide protocols reduce recurrence risk.