Mange
Also called Scabies (sarcoptic mange), demodicosis
Skin disease caused by mites. Sarcoptic mange is very itchy and contagious, and affects people too. Demodicosis is linked to the animal's immunity and usually itches less.
Cause and spread
- Cause
- The mites Sarcoptes scabiei (sarcoptic mange) and Demodex species (demodicosis).
- How it spreads
- Sarcoptic mange spreads by contact between dogs and through shared bedding and grooming tools. Demodex lives on dogs normally and causes disease when the immune response is weak or inherited tendency exists.
- People
- Sarcoptic mange can cause an itchy rash in people who handle infested dogs.
Signs to watch for
- Intense itching (sarcoptic) starting on the belly, chest, ears, elbows and hocks
- Hair loss, redness, crusts and scratches
- Localised hairless, scaly patches in young dogs (demodicosis)
- Widespread hair loss and skin infection in generalised demodicosis
Many diseases look alike. Only a laboratory test can tell them apart, so please see a veterinarian for any sick animal.
How it is diagnosed
Several deep skin scrapings from affected areas are examined for mites, eggs or droppings. Sarcoptic mites can be hard to find, so a negative scraping does not rule it out, and the diagnosis also considers the signs and response to treatment.
Prevention and control
- Treat all in-contact animals and wash bedding
- Do not share grooming tools between animals
- Look for underlying disease in adult dogs with generalised demodicosis
Where this information comes from
- Mange in Dogs and Cats · Merck Veterinary Manual
General information for animal owners and veterinarians, last checked October 2026. It does not replace the advice of your veterinarian, who should decide which tests and treatment your animal needs.