Yeast infections in dogs are common, especially in certain breeds or dogs with underlying conditions and compromised immune systems. While they can occur anywhere on the skin, they are often seen in your dog’s ears. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing serious complications. Here’s what to know about yeast infections in dogs to keep your dog healthy.
Discovering redness, itchiness, or a funky smell coming from your furry friend can be concerning. If your veterinarian has diagnosed a yeast infection, you might be wondering whether you should keep your dog away from other pets or family members. Let me clear this up for you with everything I’ve learned about canine yeast infections.
The Short Answer: No, They’re Not Contagious
Good news! Dog yeast infections are NOT contagious to humans or other pets You can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that you can still cuddle your pup without worry of catching their infection
As a dog owner myself, I’ve dealt with my fair share of yeast issues with my Golden Retriever (a breed particularly prone to these infections). Let me share what I’ve learned through my experiences and research.
What Exactly Is a Yeast Infection in Dogs?
Yeast infections occur when there’s an overgrowth of yeast cells on your dog’s skin or in their ears. These yeast cells are naturally present on your dog’s body in small amounts – they’re part of the normal flora. It’s only when they multiply excessively that problems arise.
The most common types of yeast that cause infections in dogs are
- Malassezia – frequently found in ear infections
- Candida – can affect various parts of the body
Common Locations for Yeast Infections
Yeast loves warm, moist environments, so infections commonly develop in these areas:
- Ears – especially in floppy-eared breeds
- Paws – between toes and pads
- Skin folds – in wrinkly breeds
- Armpits
- Groin area
- Face folds – in certain breeds
How to Spot a Yeast Infection in Your Dog
Recognizing the symptoms early can help you get treatment before the infection gets worse. Look out for:
For Ear Infections:
- Head shaking and tilting
- Scratching at ears
- Rubbing head against furniture or floor
- Brown or yellow discharge
- Musty, cheesy odor
- Redness and swelling
- Hair loss around ears
For Skin Infections:
- Intense itching
- Red, irritated skin
- Greasy, crusty, or flaky patches
- Thickening skin (elephant-like)
- Darker skin color
- Hair loss
- That distinctive musty smell
For Paw Infections:
- Excessive licking and chewing of paws
- Redness between toes
- Brown discharge in nailbeds
- Pink staining on fur around paws
- Swelling
Why Aren’t Yeast Infections Contagious?
This is the million-dollar question! Yeast infections aren’t contagious because they result from an overgrowth of organisms already present on your dog’s body. The infection develops due to changes in your dog’s skin environment or immune system – not from “catching” something from another animal.
Think of it like this: your dog already has these yeast cells on their skin (just like humans have yeast on their skin too). The infection happens when something disrupts the normal balance, allowing these yeasts to multiply uncontrollably.
What Causes Yeast Infections in Dogs?
Several factors can trigger a yeast overgrowth:
- Allergies – food sensitivities or environmental allergies
- Moisture – trapped water after swimming or bathing
- Antibiotics – which can disrupt normal bacterial balance
- Underlying health issues – like hypothyroidism or seborrhea
- Weakened immune system
- Hot, humid weather
- Poor diet – especially foods high in sugar and carbs
Breeds Most Susceptible to Yeast Infections
Some dog breeds are more likely to develop yeast infections due to their physical characteristics:
- Basset Hounds
- West Highland White Terriers
- Cocker Spaniels
- Shih Tzus
- Golden Retrievers
- Labrador Retrievers
- Schnauzers
- Dachshunds
- Poodles
- Maltese
- German Shepherds
- Chihuahuas
- Shetland Sheepdogs
- Lhasa Apsos
- Bichon Frise
These breeds often have features like floppy ears, skin folds, or hair in the ear canal that create ideal environments for yeast growth.
Important Note: Secondary Infections CAN Be Contagious
While the yeast infection itself isn’t contagious, it’s important to know that yeast infections can sometimes lead to secondary infections that ARE contagious. For example, a dog with a yeast infection might develop a secondary bacterial or fungal infection (like ringworm) that can spread to humans or other pets.
This is why proper diagnosis and prompt treatment are crucial. I always recommend seeing your vet rather than trying to diagnose at home.
Treatment Options for Yeast Infections in Dogs
If your dog has been diagnosed with a yeast infection, your vet might recommend:
For Ear Infections:
- Cleaning with a veterinary ear cleaner
- Antifungal ear drops or ointments
- Possibly oral medications for severe cases
For Skin Infections:
- Medicated antifungal shampoos
- Topical creams or sprays
- Oral antifungal medications
- Possibly antibiotics if there’s a secondary bacterial infection
For Paw Infections:
- Regular paw soaks with antifungal solution
- Keeping paws dry
- Topical treatments
- Possibly an E-collar to prevent licking
My Experience with Home Remedies
While veterinary treatment is essential, I’ve found some home care approaches that can complement professional treatment:
- Vinegar rinses – diluted apple cider vinegar (1:2 with water) can help alter skin pH to discourage yeast growth (always check with your vet first!)
- Keeping areas dry – thoroughly drying ears after swimming or bathing
- Diet adjustments – reducing foods high in carbs and sugars
- Regular cleaning of affected areas
⚠️ Important: Always consult your veterinarian before trying any home remedies. What works for one dog might not work for another, and improper treatments could make things worse.
Prevention Tips to Avoid Future Yeast Infections
Once you’ve dealt with a yeast infection, you’ll definitely want to prevent recurrence. Here are some strategies:
- Keep ears clean and dry – especially after swimming or bathing
- Regular grooming – trim hair around ears and between paw pads
- Address underlying allergies – work with your vet on allergy management
- Consider diet modifications – some dogs benefit from lower-carb diets
- Maintain good hygiene – regular bathing with appropriate shampoos
- Control environmental factors – keep indoor humidity levels down
- Regular check-ups – catch potential issues early
When to See a Veterinarian
While yeast infections aren’t contagious, they can cause significant discomfort for your dog. Seek veterinary care if you notice:
- Persistent scratching, licking, or chewing
- Redness, irritation, or skin changes
- Unusual odor from ears, paws, or skin folds
- Head shaking or ear scratching
- Any symptoms that don’t improve with home care
The Recovery Timeline
How long will it take for your dog to recover? It depends on the severity of the infection:
- Mild cases – may improve in a few days with proper treatment
- Moderate cases – typically take 1-2 weeks to show significant improvement
- Severe or chronic cases – can take several weeks to months to resolve completely
In my experience with my Golden, ear yeast infections usually showed improvement within 3-5 days of starting treatment, but we had to continue treatment for about 2 weeks to prevent recurrence.
FAQs About Dog Yeast Infections
Can I catch a yeast infection from my dog?
No, dog yeast infections are not contagious to humans. However, secondary infections that sometimes develop alongside yeast infections (like ringworm) can be contagious.
Can my other pets catch a yeast infection from my infected dog?
No, the yeast infection itself cannot be transmitted from one pet to another. However, if there’s a secondary infection, that might be contagious to other pets.
Should I isolate my dog with a yeast infection?
It’s not necessary to isolate your dog purely because of a yeast infection. However, if your vet suspects a secondary contagious infection, they might recommend some separation from other pets.
How much does treatment typically cost?
Treatment costs vary widely depending on:
- The severity of the infection
- Whether it’s a simple ear infection or widespread skin issue
- Your geographic location
- Whether you see a general practitioner or specialist (like a veterinary dermatologist)
Generally, expect to pay anywhere from $50-300+ for diagnosis and treatment.
Can yeast infections come back?
Unfortunately, yes. Dogs who have had one yeast infection are often prone to recurrence, especially if the underlying cause (allergies, etc.) isn’t addressed.
Conclusion
While dealing with a yeast infection in your furry friend can be frustrating, the good news is that you don’t need to worry about it spreading to you or your other pets. The key is getting proper diagnosis and treatment from your veterinarian and addressing any underlying issues that might be contributing to the problem.
Remember, your dog is counting on you to recognize when something’s wrong and get them the help they need. By staying vigilant and proactive, you can help your pup stay comfortable and yeast-free!
Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult with your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment of your pet’s medical conditions.
Are Some Breeds More Susceptible to Yeast Infections?
Dogs with floppy ears who swim often, such as Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers, are more likely to get yeast infections. Breeds such as Miniature Schnauzers, Bichon Frise, and Shih Tzu are also more susceptible to infections because the thick hair in their ear canals hampers the airflow necessary to keep ears dry.
Any dog with allergies is also more likely to develop yeast infections.
Yeast Infections on Skin
Yeast dermatitis, a skin inflammation caused by yeast infections, can spread to any area of a dog’s skin. But it’s most likely to occur at the site of a rash or wherever there are skin folds that can trap moisture. Wrinkly breeds, such as the Chinese Shar-Pei, are especially vulnerable.
Symptoms of yeast infections of the skin include:
- Intense itching
- Red, irritated, inflamed skin
- Greasy, crusty, or flaky patches
- Thickening (elephant-like) skin
- Darker skin color
- Hair loss
- Musty smell
Although a yeast infection of the skin may start in a very specific area, if left untreated, it can spread and affect the entire body, including the dog’s face and mouth. Often, there may be a secondary bacterial infection accompanying the yeast infection.