Understanding A Dog Yeast Infection

However, just because you don't see your dog oozing with brown, greasy smelly paste, doesn't mean he doesn't have a yeast problem internally (in the gut).

It is more noticeable in a dog's ear than anywhere else and many owners innocently think that the yeast is wax due to the brown color. Wax has a hard texture while yeast is softer and greasier.

It thrives in moist areas of your dog's skin such as the anal glands, the ears and the feet.
A dog with a weakened or compromised immune system seems to be more susceptible to yeast problems. With a fragile immune system the good bacteria lessens and the Candida Albicans change from a non-invasive yeast to full scale dog yeast infection.

What Causes A Dog Yeast Infection?

Our experience with our own yellow lab has taught us quite a bit about these relentless infections. The most common causes of yeast infections include allergies, poor diet, poor hygiene (not keeping your dog clean), chemicals, medications and anything else that can effect the immune system.

For many years Lulu battled severe allergies and dog yeast infections. Since both cause itching and discomfort, chronic yeast infections are often misdiagnosed as allergies in dogs. Many dogs with yeast problems have excessive oil in the skin. Sebaceous cysts (follicular cysts) develop from glands that produce an oily substance in the hair follicles that eventually get clogged. However, this excessive oil in the skin is very inviting to yeast. Although these cysts aren't very pretty, they are generally harmless.

What Can You Do?

If you're not already doing so, the first thing you should do is to start feeding him/her a premium food. If your dog suffers from allergies and yeast issues, you MUST stick with a high end food. Check out the 10 Best Dog Food List. This will result in better health down the road. Since dogs need meat to thrive, stay away from cheap dog foods that contain more grain than anything else.

•  Feed only all natural food and treats.
  
•  Balance the pH in the gut by adding 2 teaspoons of either lemon juice or apple cider vinegar to your dog's food or water.
  
•  Eliminate yeast by building a healthy immune system. Include digestive enzymes and probiotics in your dog's diet DAILY!
  
•  Keep your dog clean by bathing at least once a month and wiping him down once or twice a week with natural baby wipes. Bathe more often if you have too.
  
•  Dampness is another invitation to yeast. Keep your dog dry at all times. If he is out in the rain or snow, be sure to thoroughly dry him, remembering to dry between his toes. Keep his ears clean and dry.
  
•  Keep his bedding clean and dry.
  
•  A weakened immune system due to old age, serious health issues or poor diet can bring on a yeast infection. A good probiotic is an absolute MUST for these dogs.
  
•  Keep his ears clean and wipe around his back end.

Keep in mind that shampoos and antibiotics are a temporary fix. It can't be stressed enough that you must work with your dog from the inside out and this all starts with his food and diet. Do not skimp to save a few dollars on dog food, because vet bills can add up quickly for a reoccurring yeast infection in your dog.

Diet and patience will be what ultimately solves your dog's problem, be patient. Once we changed Lulu to a premium diet and started adding a probiotic supplement, her yeast infections and overall allergy problems improved.

Helpful Tips For A Dog Yeast Infection In The Ears: A great product that we always keep on hand for both preventing and eliminating dog ear infections is called K9Solutions and we HIGHLY recommend it. It's the best product that we've found for constant ear infections.

Or, if you prefer to make your own solution, you can try this homeopathic remedy for reoccuring yeast infections in the ears.

Mix 4 ounces of Rubbing Alcohol
2 Tablespoons Boric Acid (pharmacy will have)
1 tablespoon Glycerine (purchase at pharmacy).

Using a dropper, administer several drops into each ear. Cup the base of the dog's ear with your hand and gently massage. Let the dog shake and wipe off any excess.

If your dog has an existing ear infection, clear that up first by having your vet prescribe antibiotics. Once the ears are free of infection, start this ear solution and USE IT WEEKLY to keep the ears free of yeast and further infections. Unlike K9Solutions, this recipe will not cure an existing ear infection, but will prevent future ones.

ADD TO YOUR SOCIAL BOOKMARKS: