Most dog skin problems are not serious, but the intense itching associated can be painful. Fortunately, most can be cured with a quick trip to the veterinarian.

A persistently itchy rash is likely allergic dermatitis. The symptoms can be partially relieved by corticosteroids, but the only way to remove symptoms completely is to identify and remove the allergen. Dogs are occasionally allergic to pollen, food, insect bites, and grooming products.

Scratching that is concentrated on the toes and/or ears is likely a yeast infection. Symptoms are itchy, discolored, or irritated shin on the ears and paws, where conditions are best for the yeast to grow. The most common treatment is a prescription topical cream. Occasionally a medicated bath or oral drug may be prescribed.

Superficial bacterial folliculitis presents as sores, scabs, and bumps. The infection is easier to identify in shorthaired dogs. Longhaired dogs will most likely present with excessive shedding and scaly skin. It is common for superficial bacterial folliculitis to occur simultaneously with other skin problems.

A common bacterial infection found in puppies is impetigo. Blisters filled with pus will commonly break and crust over. The blisters are easy to see since they are on the hairless portion of the abdomen. Treatment by topical solution is simple.

Dogs with greasy skin and scales have seborrhea. Seborrhea is often a sign of another problem such as hormonal abnormalities or allergies, but it can sometimes be a lifelong genetic disease. If the underlying cause is treated symptoms will abate.

Ringworm, contrary to its name, is a fungus and not a worm. It causes circular lesions on a dog's paws, forelegs, ears, or head. Very effective anti-fungal treatments are available.

Alopecia, or hair loss, is always a sign of another disease in dogs. It can be caused by stress, nutritional deficiency, or an underlying disease.

Many people know what mange looks like. It is caused by mites and causes intense itching, red skin, sores, and hair loss. Treatment depends on the variety of mange and is effective.

Fleas are the most common skin problem among dogs. The average infestation will just cause itching, but severe infestations can cause anemia and blood loss. Fleas also carry other parasites, most commonly tapeworms. Dogs which are allergic to fleas will also develop allergic dermatitis and/or alopecia simultaneously.

Ticks are another common parasite. A dogs will rarely pick up enough to cause serious blood loss, but they do spread Lyme disease, a potentially serious bacterial infection. Vaccines for Lyme disease are available.

Acral lick granuloma is a disorder that is a result of excessive licking. The wound is unable to heal and becomes painful, exacerbating the condition. The treatment includes preventing the dog from continuing the behavior. Foul-tasting topical solutions and cone collars are available to solve the problem.

Hot spots are a common with dog skin problems. They are small areas of irritated, inflamed, and red skin. Treatment includes addressing the underlying cause.