What is Sarcoptic Mange in dogs and how to treat it
Sarcoptic mange or canine scabies is caused by a parasitic mite (Sarcoptes scabiei) that burrows just beneath the surface of the skin. Sarcoptes scabiei mites bury into the skin of healthy adult dogs and puppies, and feed on material in and on the skin. Sarcoptic mange is also known as scabies and is zoonotic, which means it is transmissible from pets to people through direct contact. Sarcoptic mange may occur in any dog at any age.
These mites are found mostly in areas where infected dogs and foxes frequent. Day cares, dog parks, shelters, and some breeding facilities are examples of where dogs can easily spread scabies.
Scabies is not caused by bad hygiene, but it can be worsened with neglect or a weaker immune system. Animals with depressed or forming immune systems (like puppies) or animals with other underlying medical issues are at a higher risk of mange infestation.
Written by Dr. Mariella Roberts, Veterinary Surgeon, Animal Trust Vets CIC | Published March 2025 | Review date March 2027 | This advice is for UK pets only and is not a replacement for seeing a vet
Sarcoptic mange symptoms
Mites prefer hairless skin, so the inside of the ears, armpits and belly are usually the first areas affected.
Signs of sarcoptic mange include:
excessive scratching
biting at the skin
red inflamed skin
scabs and crusty skin
open sores
hair loss
When to contact your vet
If you spot any of these symptoms, contact your vet straight away. Or if you think your dog has encountered another dog or fox with mange.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is made by a skin scraping examined under a microscope; however, it is common not to see sarcoptic mange mites when performing a skin scraping. This is because the mites burrow deep into the skin, and it takes only a few mites to cause significant itching.
Just because no mites are seen does not mean your dog does not have sarcoptic mange. A diagnosis may therefore be made based on clinical signs.
Sarcoptic mange treatment
While sarcoptic mange is difficult to diagnose definitively, it is instead easy to treat, and several choices are available. All dogs in the household diagnosed with sarcoptic mange should be treated. Many common flea products will get rid of a scabies infection. Using one of them will not only treat the scabies but will prevent future episodes as well.
Cream or tablet steroids can be used to address the inflammation, and antibiotics may also be prescribed to treat secondary infections.
Unlike other parasites, sarcoptic mites can’t survive for very long in the environment without a host. However, it’s still a good idea to thoroughly wash bedding, collars and harnesses to avoid reinfestation.
Prevention
Regular use of the correct anti-parasitic medication can prevent sarcoptic mange. Good house cleaning and a clean environment are good ways to control scabies.
Outlook
Treatment is usually very successful when owners take a multi-step approach giving medications properly, continuing recommended follow-up examinations and treating all dogs in the household.