Understanding Seborrhea in Dogs

Noticed your dog’s skin is flaky, greasy, or smelly? It might be seborrhea, a common, uncomfortable skin condition that can stem from other health issues. Let’s dig into what seborrhea is, why it happens, and most importantly, what you can do to help your furry friend feel better.

What is seborrhea in dogs?

Seborrhea (sometimes called seborrheic dermatitis) is a skin disorder caused by a defect in the way your dog’s skin produces keratin. Keratin is that key protein responsible for skin renewal. When the keratinization process is disrupted, it can lead to either dry, flaky skin (seborrhea sicca) or greasy, waxy skin buildup (seborrhea oleosa). Most dogs experience a mix of both types.

While seborrhea isn’t painful, it can be uncomfortable. The condition may result in a noticeable odor, dandruff-like flakes, or even infections if left untreated.

Symptoms of seborrhea in dogs

Here’s what you might see if your dog has seborrhea:

• Flaky or scaly skin (like dandruff)
• Greasy or oily coat
• Waxy buildup in skin folds
• Strong or unpleasant skin odor
• Redness or irritated spots
• Hair loss in affected areas
• Recurrent ear infections

Common areas where seborrhea shows up include the back, neck, groin, armpits, and ear edges. If secondary infections (bacterial or yeast) develop, you might notice increased itching, inflammation, and worsening odor.

Causes of seborrhea in dogs

Seborrhea in dogs can be primary or secondary. Here’s what that means:

Primary seborrhea

Primary seborrhea is a genetic condition, more common in breeds like Cocker Spaniels, Basset Hounds, and West Highland White Terriers. Symptoms usually show up before your dog turns two. While there’s no cure, you can manage it with lifelong skin care routines.

Secondary seborrhea

Secondary seborrhea is much more common and happens because of an underlying issue. Common triggers include:

• Allergies (flea, food, or environmental)
• Hormonal imbalances like hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease
• Skin parasites like mites
• Yeast or bacterial infections
• Poor diet or nutritional deficiencies

Since secondary seborrhea is a symptom, not a standalone issue, treating the underlying cause often resolves it.

Diagnosis of dog seborrhea

Your vet will start with a physical exam and ask about your dog’s symptoms. Diagnosing seborrhea itself is pretty straightforward, but figuring out the root cause (if it’s secondary seborrhea) might involve tests like:

• Skin scraping to rule out parasites
• Skin cytology to check for infections
• Blood and urine panels to evaluate hormone levels
• Fungal or bacterial cultures
• Skin biopsy in rare cases

Once your vet identifies what’s causing the seborrhea, they’ll recommend a tailored treatment plan.

Treatment options for seborrhea in dogs

Treatment depends on whether your dog has primary or secondary seborrhea. Here’s an overview:

Managing primary seborrhea

While there’s no cure, you can manage it with regular skin care. Your vet might suggest:

• Medicated shampoos (antiseborrheic shampoos with ingredients like sulfur or salicylic acid)
• Omega fatty acid supplements to support skin health
• Retinoids (synthetic vitamin A) in some cases

Addressing secondary seborrhea

Treating the underlying condition (like allergies or hypothyroidism) is key. Once that’s under control, the seborrhea often improves. Your vet may also prescribe antifungals or antibiotics if there’s a secondary infection.

Remember, seborrhea can flare up, so ongoing care and regular checkups are essential.

Pet insurance and dog skin conditions

Managing seborrhea can involve regular vet visits, diagnostic tests, medications, and care products. These costs can add up, but pet insurance, like Lemonade Pet, can help offset the expense. Lemonade covers illnesses, including many skin conditions, but it’s best to get coverage early, as pre-existing conditions aren’t included.

Curious about coverage? Getting a quick quote is easy and could help you plan ahead for your dog’s care.

Before we go

Seborrhea in dogs isn’t fun, but it is manageable. Knowing what’s causing your dog’s skin condition is the first step. Talk to your vet, explore treatment options, and consider pet insurance to take some of the financial weight off your shoulders. Your pup will be on the way to healthier, happier skin in no time.

Frequently Asked Questions

A few quick words, because we <3 our lawyers: This post is general in nature, and any statement in it doesn’t alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of the policies issued, which differ according to your state of residence. You’re encouraged to discuss your specific circumstances with your own professional advisors. The purpose of this post is merely to provide you with info and insights you can use to make such discussions more productive! Naturally, all comments by, or references to, third parties represent their own views, and Lemonade assumes no responsibility for them. Coverage may not be available in all states. Please note that statements about coverages, policy management, claims processes, Giveback, and customer support apply to policies underwritten by Lemonade Insurance Company or Metromile Insurance Company, a Lemonade company, sold by Lemonade Insurance Agency, LLC.  The statements do not apply to policies underwritten by other carriers.