The root cause of yeast infections in dogs

Yeast infections in dogs often appear as itchy, smelly, and greasy skin, with common sites being the ears, paws, underbelly, and folds of the skin. Addressing the underlying cause, along with antifungal treatments and dietary changes, is crucial for resolving the issue. Allergies are a significant trigger for yeast infection.. Dogs with food allergies, environmental allergies (pollen, dust mites, mold), or flea allergies often develop yeast infections as their skin becomes inflamed, creating an environment conducive to yeast growth. Dogs with a weakened immune system (due to illness, medications like steroids) are more susceptible to yeast infections. A compromised immune system may not regulate the balance of natural yeast properly, leading to an overgrowth. Diet high in carbohydrates, including those with processed ingredients, can contribute to yeast overgrowth. Yeast thrives on sugar, so a diet high in starchy or sugary foods can exacerbate the problem. Also hormonal imbalance can contribute to yeast infections.These conditions can affect the skin’s ability to maintain a healthy balance of yeast and bacteria. We can forget about long-term or repeated use of antibiotics can disrupt the normal balance of bacteria on the skin, allowing yeast to flourish without its natural bacterial competitors. 

Without addressing the root cause of the yeast infection, external treatments will only provide temporary relief. Once the medications are stopped, yeast is likely to return if the underlying issue persists. Therefore, finding the root cause (whether it’s allergies, diet, medication overuse  or a health condition) and treating it in conjunction with external therapies will lead to long-term success.