Dog Ringworm (with photos of ringworm)

What is ringworm?

Also known as dermatophytosis, ringworm is a highly infectious fungal infection characterised by areas of bald circular lesions on the dog. Ringworm is the most common type of “fungus” to infect dogs.

The fungus is readily passed on via contact with an infected animal, human or via bedding, grooming equipment, carpeting, infected soil etc. The fungus lives off dead skin, hair and claws. There are three types of fungus that cause ringworm in dogs with Microsporum canis being the most common. Trichophyton mentagrophytes and Microsporum gypseum being the other two less common types.

Puppies and dogs are most commonly infected although the fungus can affect dogs of all age.

What are the symptoms of ringworm in dogs?

The incubation period ranges from 1 – 4 weeks. The most common symptom of ringworm in dogs is bald patches of scaly, circular lesions which may be slightly red & raised. Typical areas of infection are the ears, face, paws and tail.

Ringworm itself is not itchy, but secondary bacterial infection can result in crusting and scabbing which becomes irritating to the dog.

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How is ringworm diagnosed in dogs?

There are other conditions which can also cause similar circular lesions to ringworm. Tests to confirm diagnosis may include:

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  Ultraviole4t light (Wood’s lamp) – Hair infected with ringworm will glow green under UV light. There can be false positives or false negatives with this method however.

  
  


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  Microscopic examination of hairs taken from the area can reveal ringworm.

  
  


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  Fungal culture – Hairs are removed from the affected area and are placed on a medium to grow the fungus. This is the most accurate method of diagnosis.

  
  

How is ringworm treated?

Treatment requires decontamination of the environment and treating the dog. The organism can remain in the environment for up to a year.

Environment: Where possible, a bleach solution diluted to 1:10 should be used to treat suitable areas. Bedding should be discarded. All hard surfaces wiped down & disinfected. Carpets and soft furnishing should be repeatedly vacuumed and the vacuum cleaner bag discarded immediately afterwards.

Simple cases of ringworm on your dog may be treated with topical antifungal medications. Treatment is continued until the lesions are healed.

Shampoos and dips. Lime sulfur is the most effective dip used to treat dogs. They should be treated 1-2 times a week for 1-3 weeks.

Griseofulvin (Fulvicin®) is an oral medication which is effective in treating ringworm. It causes birth defects so can not be used to treat pregnant bitches.

Can I catch ringworm from my dog?

Yes, ringworm is extremely contagious, you can catch it from your dog and your dog can catch it from you.

Last edited 22/4/13