- Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.
What’s that strange smell? If your dog gives off a musty odor, they might have a yeast infection or Canine Malassezia dermatitis. Yeast infections in dogs cause discomfort, intense itching, and red, inflamed skin, primarily in moist and warm environments.
The good news is that yeast dermatitis in dogs is usually treatable—but only if the underlying cause is identified and addressed.
Here’s everything you need to know about dog skin yeast infections: from what foods may cause it to how to spot and treat yeast dermatitis in dogs. We’ve even looked at whether home remedies are actually helpful (spoiler: they can help soothe your dog’s skin, but they’re no substitute for vet advice and treatments).
What Does A Yeast Infection Look & Smell Like In Dogs?
“Yeast infections typically present as greasy or oily skin,” explains Dr. Kathryn Dench, a holistic & integrative veterinarian and Chief Veterinary Advisor at Paw Origins. She adds that a dog’s skin might also become red and inflamed, with crusty, flaky patches.
Smell-wise, Dr. Dench describes yeast infections as having a “notable musty odor.” Below, we’ve outlined the symptoms of different yeast infections where they most commonly appear.
1. Belly, groin, and armpit
Yeast infections can occur anywhere on your dog’s body but often occur on the belly, groin, and armpit. Additionally, skin yeast infections are more common in breeds with areas of folded skin, such as Bulldogs, Pugs, and the Chinese Shar-Pei.
Typical signs of belly, groin, and armpit yeast infections include:
- Spots of pink, red, or darker skin
- Greasy skin
- Patches of dry, flaky skin
- Excessive scratching
- Patches of thicker skin
- Hair loss
- Redness and irritation
Left untreated, a yeast infection rash on a dog’s belly or other isolated area may spread and cause a secondary bacterial infection.
2. Ear
The L-shape of a dog’s ear canal creates the warm and damp environment yeast loves. Usually, yeast infections within the ear are due to either Malassezia or Candida.
Typical signs of an ear yeast infection include:
- Brown, dark red, or yellow discharge
- Swelling, irritation, and redness
- Head shaking
- Rubbing of the ears and head
- Scratching
Many of these symptoms overlap with other infections affecting your dog’s ears, like bacterial infections. Any infections that impact your dog’s ears need prompt treatment to prevent damage to the inner ear.
3. Paw
Dampness and dirt are bound to get trapped in between a dog’s paw pads. This creates an ideal environment for yeast to grow. Typical signs of a paw yeast infection include:
- Excessive licking and chewing of paws
- Hair loss
- Red, irritated skin
- Brown or pink staining
Excessive paw licking can also be caused by other factors, including allergies, bacterial infections, food sensitivities, and even anxiety or boredom. So, it’s always best to get this behavior checked by your vet.
4. Vaginal
Dr. Dench explains that vaginal yeast infections are less common than those affecting other areas of the body. Signs include:
- Licking of the genitals
- Scooting
- Trying to pee more than normal
- Vaginal discharge
- Redness, swelling, and irritation
Which Dog Breeds Develop Yeast Infections?
While any dog can get a yeast infection, certain breeds are more susceptible. These breeds include:
- Basset Hound
- Dachshund
- Maltese
- Cocker Spaniel
- West Highland White Terrier
Additionally, dog breeds with floppy ears who love swimming are also at a higher risk of developing yeast-based ear infections.
How Do Vets Diagnose a Yeast Infection?
While visual clues may indicate that your dog is suffering from a yeast infection, remember infections don’t all look the same, says Dr. Gary Richter, a holistic veterinarian. “There is no way to definitively diagnose a yeast infection of the skin from a visual examination,” he adds.
Your vet will likely run further tests if they suspect a yeast infection. “Diagnostic tests, including skin scrapings and cultures, are highly accurate in identifying yeast infections,” Dr. Dench explains. These tests are crucial in differentiating yeast infections from conditions like bacterial infections and mange.
What are the Treatments For Yeast Infections?
Are yeast infections in dogs easily curable? Dr. Richter says the answer isn’t always clear-cut. While yeast is treatable, he says the underlying cause might require a dynamic treatment plan.
Dr. Dench says treatment often involves antifungal medications and topical treatments. Additionally, she says some at-home remedies, such as apple cider vinegar washes and diet changes, can provide relief. However, these at-home treatments work best when in conjunction with a vet-prescribed plan.
Ultimately, Dr. Richter doesn’t recommend putting anything on your dog without veterinary guidance. But if they are prescribed topical medication, he advises putting it on when they can’t lick it off, using an e-collar, or applying a topical on the dog right before a fun walk to keep them distracted.
What happens when yeast infections aren’t treated properly?
Finding the right treatment is crucial. If left untreated, Dr. Richter says yeast infections can cause serious side effects, including the following:
- Hearing loss
- Pain
- Thickened skin
- Increased scratching
How to Prevent Yeast Infections in Dogs
Want to keep your dog’s skin as sweet-smelling and yeast-free as possible? Dr. Dench says pet parents can do the following to help prevent a yeast infection in the future.
- Maintaining good hygiene
- Keeping your dog’s skin dry
- Scheduling regular veterinary check-ups