What Is Mange?
Mange is a skin disease caused by microscopic mites that burrow into or live on the skin. It causes intense itching, hair loss, and skin damage. Mange is extremely common in Indian street dogs and increasingly seen in pet dogs.
Types of Mange
Demodectic Mange (Demodex)
- Caused by Demodex canis mites
- Not contagious to humans or other dogs (in most cases)
- Common in puppies and immunocompromised dogs
- Appears as localised hair loss patches, usually on the face and legs
- Can become generalised (full body) if untreated
Sarcoptic Mange (Scabies)
- Caused by Sarcoptes scabiei mites
- Highly contagious — spreads to other dogs and can temporarily affect humans
- Causes intense, relentless itching
- Red, crusty skin, especially on ears, elbows, belly, and legs
- Dogs often scratch until they bleed
Diagnosis
- Skin scraping — your vet takes a small sample and examines it under a microscope
- Clinical signs — sometimes treatment is started based on symptoms alone, especially for sarcoptic mange (mites can be hard to find on scraping)
Treatment
Demodectic Mange
- Ivermectin or milbemycin — oral medication over several weeks
- Medicated baths — with benzoyl peroxide or amitraz
- Addressing underlying immunity issues — proper nutrition, deworming, vaccination
- Most localised cases resolve on their own in puppies with strong immunity
Sarcoptic Mange
- Ivermectin injections or oral doses — typically every 2 weeks for 4–6 doses
- Medicated shampoo baths — weekly
- Treat ALL dogs in the household — even if they show no symptoms
- Wash bedding, collars, and living areas — mites can survive briefly off the host
- Anti-itch medication — to provide relief while treatment takes effect
Recovery Timeline
| Mange Type | Mild Cases | Severe Cases |
|---|---|---|
| Demodectic (localised) | 4–8 weeks | 3–6 months |
| Demodectic (generalised) | 3–6 months | 6–12 months |
| Sarcoptic | 4–6 weeks | 6–8 weeks |
Hair regrowth is the last visible sign of recovery — skin healing happens first.
Prevention
- Maintain strong immunity through proper nutrition and vaccination
- Regular flea and tick prevention also helps reduce mite exposure
- Avoid contact with visibly mangy dogs
- Keep living areas clean and dry — this is especially important during monsoons
Important Notes
- Mange is highly treatable — even severe cases recover with consistent treatment
- Do NOT use home remedies like motor oil or kerosene — these are dangerous
- Follow the full treatment course even if the dog looks better before it ends
- Recheck skin scrapings are needed to confirm the mites are gone
This article is for educational purposes only. Always consult your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.