What should be used for mites on a dog? - briefly
Administer a veterinary‑approved acaricide, such as selamectin, ivermectin, or a topical pyrethrin‑based product, and treat the environment with a mite‑killing spray or thorough washing. Follow the veterinarian’s dosage schedule to ensure complete eradication.
What should be used for mites on a dog? - in detail
Mite infestations in dogs require accurate diagnosis and targeted therapy. Identification of the causative species—commonly Sarcoptes scabiei (scabies) or Demodex spp. (demodicosis)—guides treatment choice.
Topical acaricides provide rapid relief. Products containing selamectin, moxidectin, or ivermectin are applied directly to the skin according to label instructions. Lime‑sulfur dips, used weekly for several weeks, reduce mite load and alleviate itching. Benzoyl‑peroxide shampoos, applied to the coat and rinsed after a prescribed interval, help control superficial mites.
Oral medications complement topical agents. Ivermectin, administered at a dose of 0.2–0.4 mg/kg, is effective against both scabies and demodicosis but requires careful dosing in breeds sensitive to the drug. Milbemycin oxime, given at 0.5 mg/kg, offers broad‑spectrum ectoparasite control with a favorable safety profile. Afoxolaner and fluralaner, administered as chewable tablets, provide long‑lasting protection against mites and other parasites.
Environmental management reduces reinfestation risk. Bedding, grooming tools, and living areas should be washed in hot water (≥ 60 °C) or treated with a diluted lime‑sulfur solution. Vacuuming removes shed skin and hair that may contain viable mites.
Follow‑up examinations confirm eradication. Repeat skin scrapings or acetate tape tests after the treatment course verify the absence of live mites. Persistent lesions may indicate secondary infection; appropriate antibiotics or anti‑inflammatory drugs address bacterial complications.
Preventive strategies include regular use of monthly topical or oral ectoparasiticides, routine health checks, and maintaining clean living conditions. Early intervention prevents severe skin damage and secondary infections.