can dogs get ringworm
Yes, dogs can get ringworm. It's a common fungal skin infection (not a worm) caused by dermatophytes like Microsporum canis , affecting dogs worldwide.
What Causes Ringworm in Dogs?
Ringworm spreads through direct contact with infected animals, spores in soil, or contaminated items like bedding and brushes. Puppies, elderly dogs, and those with weak immune systems are most vulnerable, as spores enter via tiny skin wounds from grooming or itching.
Common culprits include:
- Microsporum canis (most frequent in dogs).
- Microsporum gypseum (from soil).
- Trichophyton mentagrophytes (from rodents).
Classic Symptoms to Spot
Look for circular bald patches with crusty, scaly edges—often on the head, legs, or paws. Hair breaks off easily, and skin may redden or inflame. Unlike true worms, it glows under UV light (Wood's lamp) in some cases.
Symptom| Description| Common Locations 12
---|---|---
Hair Loss| Round, expanding patches| Head, ears, paws, legs
Crusty Skin| Scaly, inflamed borders| Trunk, face
Itching| Mild to moderate| Varies; not always present
Dull Coat| Brittle hairs that snap| Affected areas only
Mild cases might self-resolve, but untreated infections spread fast.
How It's Diagnosed and Treated
Vets confirm via skin scrapings, fungal cultures, or UV exams. Treatment blends:
- Topical antifungals (shampoos like miconazole) for mild spots.
- Oral meds (e.g., itraconazole) for 4-8 weeks in severe cases.
- Environmental cleanup —vacuum daily, disinfect with bleach, wash fabrics.
Full recovery takes 2-4 months ; monitor closely.
Zoonotic Risk: Humans Beware
Ringworm jumps to people, especially kids under 5, elderly, or immunocompromised via touch. Cats spread it more than dogs, but wash hands post-handling and isolate pups.
"Direct contact is key— unbroken skin resists, but scratches invite trouble."
Prevention Tips
- Quarantine new pets for 2-3 weeks.
- Regular grooming; avoid stray contact.
- Clean shared spaces; spores linger up to 2 years.
Recent 2026 updates note rising cases in multi-pet homes amid wet winters.
TL;DR: Dogs get ringworm easily—treat promptly to protect all. See a vet ASAP. Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.