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Piel y pelo

Seborrhoea

A disorder of skin keratinisation that produces greasy or scaly skin. It may be primary (hereditary) or secondary to another disease.

Mild🐕 Dogs

Symptoms to watch for

  • Greasy skin and coat, or conversely very scaly (dandruff)
  • Bad odour
  • Variable itching
  • Areas of thickened skin
  • Associated ear infection in some cases

Causes

Primary: hereditary (Cocker Spaniel, Springer Spaniel, West Highland White Terrier, Basset Hound). Secondary: allergies, parasites, hormonal problems, poor nutrition.

Diagnosis

Skin examination. It is important to distinguish the primary form from the secondary form, which is far more common.

Treatment

Specific shampoos (anti-seborrhoeic), fatty acids and, above all, treating the underlying cause if it is secondary. The primary form is managed for life.

Prevention

Treat underlying causes (allergies, parasites), good nutrition, fatty acid supplements.

When should you see the vet?

See your vet if the skin is persistently greasy, scaly or malodorous — there is almost always a treatable cause behind it.

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.