What is the most common skin problem in pitbulls

17 Most Common Pit Bull Health Issues By Data (2024)

Last Updated on: 31st January 2024, 06:56 pm

Despite the many controversies surrounding Pit bulls, there is no denying the fact that some people are in love with this special breed of dog.

With Pit bulls making up almost 20% of the total number of dogs in the USA ie about 4.5million pitbulls, there is no gain saying that you may likely own one.if you owe a pitbull or are thinking of getting one, then it is important to know a lot of things about this controversial dog breeds especially if you are thinking of getting one.

One of them are the common health problems in Pitbulls as seen in this survey.

As a breed, Pit bulls are not immune to diseases. Even though a pit bull can have long and healthy life (a life span of around 12years on the average), they are still sucesptible to illness and diseases.

In this article, we will look at the common health challenges that Pit bulls face, what triggers it and how to prevent or completely eradicate it.

What Is A Pit Bull Breed

Pit bulls are descended from bulldogs and terriers. They were bred in England in the 19th century for the purpose of bull-baiting and dog fighting.

Although these activities are now illegal, the breeding of pit bulls to be strong and athletic continues today.

As a result, pit bulls have a muscular body structure and a wide head with a short muzzle. They are also known for their loyalty and strong sense of protection.

Pit bulls are generally friendly and affectionate dogs, but they can be aggressive if not properly trained and socialized. They are also very intelligent and can be trained to do a variety of tasks.

Pit bulls are often used as therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs, and service dogs.

The Pit bull terrier breeds includes the american pit bull terrier, the american staffordshire terrier breeds and other breed. It is important to note that not all pitbull breeds are registered by the United Kennel Club.

Top 5 Common Pitbulls Health Problems

• Skin Allergies
• Hip Dysplasia
• Demodetic Mange
• Healthworm Disease
• Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome

1: Skin allergies:

Skin infections are common in pitbulls, and they can be caused by a number of factors, such as flea or food allergies, contact allergies, or atopic dermatitis. Symptoms of skin infections include itching, scratching, and redness of the skin.

Prevention:

To prevent skin allergies, make sure to keep your pitbull clean and groomed, and avoid using harsh chemicals or soaps that could irritate their skin. Regular flea and tick prevention is also important to prevent flea allergies.

How to Treat Skin Allergies:

If your pitbull does develop skin diseases, treatment may involve identifying and removing the allergen.

Medication such as antihistamines or corticosteroids to relieve symptoms, and topical treatments such as shampoos or creams to soothe the skin may also be recommended to prevent other skin diseases. Learn more about skin allergies in pitbulls and how to cure it.

2: Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition that affects the hip joint especially the hind legs, causing the ball and socket joint to not fit together properly. This can cause pain and inflammation, and can eventually lead to arthritis and mobility issues plus a whole lot of other knee problems.

Prevention:

To prevent hip dysplasia, it is important to only breed pitbulls with healthy hips and to avoid overfeeding them to prevent excessive weight gain, which can put extra stress on the hip joints.

How to Treat Hip Dysplasia:

If your pitbull does develop hip dysplasia, treatment may involve arthritis medication, pain management, exercise modification, and possibly hip surgery in severe cases. Check out this article on what hip dysplasia is in pitbulls and how to manage it

3: Demodectic Mange

Demodectic mange is a skin condition caused by mites that live in the hair follicles and oil glands of the skin. Common signs include hair loss, itching, and redness.

Prevention:

To prevent demodectic mange, it is important to keep your pitbull clean and groomed, and to avoid exposing them to other dogs who may have the condition. Regular vet check-ups can also help to catch the condition early.

How to Treat Demodectic Mange:

If your pitbull does develop demodectic mange, treatment may involve medication such as antiparasitics or antibiotics to eliminate the mites and reduce inflammation, as well as topical treatments to soothe the skin. Check out this article to learn everything you need to know about Deodectic Mange in pitbulls.

4: Heartworm Disease

Heartworm disease is caused by a parasitic worm that is spread by mosquitoes. The worm lives in the heart and lungs, causing damage and potentially leading to heart failure and death if left untreated.

Prevention:

To prevent heartworm disease, it is important to administer a monthly heartworm preventive medication, which can be prescribed by your veterinarian. Click to learn more about heartworm diseases in pitbull.

Treatment for Heatworm Disease:

If your pitbull does develop heartworm disease, treatment may involve medication to kill the worms, as well as management of any associated symptoms and damage to the heart and lungs. Prevention is much easier and less expensive than treatment, so it is important to be vigilant about administering heartworm preventives.

5: Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome

Brachycephalic airway syndrome is a condition that affects dogs with short snouts, such as pitbulls. It can cause difficulty breathing, especially during exercise or in hot weather, and can lead to respiratory distress.

Prevention:

To prevent brachycephalic airway syndrome, it is important to avoid breeding dogs with extreme brachycephalic features, and to avoid excessive exercise or exposure to hot weather.

How to Treat Brachycephalic Airway:

If your pitbull does develop brachycephalic airway syndrome, treatment may involve lifestyle modifications such as weight loss and exercise restriction, as well as medication to manage symptoms. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct structural abnormalities in the airway. To learn more about this pitbull health issues, read our comprehensive guide on brachycephalic airway syndrom in pitbulls

6: Heart Disease:

Heart disease can affect the heart muscle, valves, and blood vessels. Symptoms may include coughing, difficulty breathing, and lethargy.

Prevention:

Preventing heart disease involves regular check-ups, a healthy diet, exercise, and avoiding smoking.

How to Treat Heart Disease:

Treatment options depend on the specific type of heart disease and may include medication, surgery, or lifestyle changes.

7: Obesity:

Obesity in pitbulls can lead to various health problems such as joint issues, diabetes, and respiratory issues.

Prevention:

To prevent obesity, it is important to provide a healthy diet and regular exercise.

How to Treat Obesity:

Avoid overfeeding and giving high-calorie treats. Read this comphrensive article on obesity in pitbulls. It includes a guide on the symptoms, main causes and treatment options if your pitbull suffers from obesity.

8: Cancer:

Cancer can affect various parts of a pitbulls body, including the lymph nodes, organs and even skin cancer.

Prevention:

Early diagnosis is critical, so it is important to schedule regular check-ups and report any unusual symptoms to your veterinarian.

How to Treat Cancer:

Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Early detection is the key to successful treatment if you suspects that your pitbull has cancer.

9: Cerebellar Ataxia:

Cerebellar ataxia is a genetic neurological condition that affects a pitbulls ability to coordinate movements. It may cause unsteadiness, lack of balance, and difficulty walking.

Prevention:

There is no cure for cerebellar ataxia in pitbull, but physical therapy and supportive care can help manage symptoms, therefore it is important to detect it early.

10: Cataracts:

Cataracts are a common eye condition in pitbulls, and they can cause cloudiness and vision impairment.

Prevention:

To prevent cataracts, it is important to provide a healthy diet with essential vitamins and antioxidants.

How to Treat Cataracts:

Treatment may involve surgery to remove the cataracts. Read this comprehensive article to understand how cataracts may affect your pitbull and how to diagnose it and treat it.

11: Ichthyosis:

Ichthyosis is a rare skin disorder that causes dry, scaly, and thickened skin. It can lead to infections and discomfort.

Prevention:

There is no cure for ichthyosis, but it can be managed with topical treatments to moisturize and soften the skin and early diagonisis. Learn about this ichthyosis in pitbulls including the causes and treatment options.

12: Gastric Dilatation:

Gastric dilatation, also known as bloat, is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself. Symptoms include abdominal pain, restlessness, and difficulty breathing.

Prevention:

To prevent gastric dilatation, it is important to feed pitbulls smaller, frequent meals and avoid vigorous exercise after eating.

How to Treat Gastic Dilatation:

Immediate veterinary attention is necessary if your pitbull shows signs of gastic dilatation.

13: Thyroid:

Hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland produces too little hormone, is common in pitbulls.

Symptoms may include weight gain, lethargy, and skin problems. Get full detail on the symptoms, causes and treatment of thyroid in pitbulls

14: Patella Luxation:

Patella luxation occurs when the kneecap dislocates from its normal position. Symptoms include limping and reluctance to bear weight on the affected leg.

Prevention:

To prevent patella luxation, it is important to provide a healthy diet and avoid overfeeding to prevent obesity, which can contribute to joint problems.

Treatment may involve surgery to correct the problem.

15: Dental Disease:

Dental disease can cause pain, bad breath, and tooth loss.

Prevention:

To prevent dental disease, it is important to provide dental hygiene, such as brushing their teeth regularly, and providing dental chews or toys.

How to Treat Dental Disease:

Treatment options may include professional cleaning, tooth extraction, and antibiotics. Read this comprehensive guide if your pitbull is suffering from any dental infection.

16: Ear Infections:

Frequent Ear infections are common in pitbulls due to their floppy ears. Symptoms may include head shaking, scratching at the ears, and foul odor.

Prevention:

To prevent ear infections, it is important to clean the ears regularly and keep them dry.

How to Treat Ear Infection:

Treatment may involve cleaning the ears and administering medication such as antibiotics. Here is a complete guide to understanding ear infection in your pitbull, including the common signs, symptoms and how treatment options.

17: Cleft Lip: Cleft lip is a congenital condition where there is a split or gap in the upper lip.

How to Treat Cleft Lip:

Treatment may involve surgery to repair the lip, but sometimes no treatment is needed if the cleft is small. Learn more about cleft lips in pitbulls.

Strategies for Keeping Your Pit Bull Healthy

The best way to keep your pit bull healthy is to provide them with proper nutrition, regular exercise, plenty of fresh water, vaccinations and parasite prevention medications. Also Regular visits to the veterinarian for check-ups can help spot any disease or illness faster.

Consulting a Veterinarian

If you have any questions or concerns about your pit bulls health or behaviour, it is important to seek advice from a qualified veterinarian.

Your vet will be able to provide you with information about the best strategies for keeping your pet healthy and happy.

There you have it. A list of pit bull health problems. As a pet owner if you have health concerns, it is recommended to visit your vet immediately.

6 American Bully Skin Problems (With Pictures)

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American bullies make some of the most loyal, loving pets, and there are tons of benefits to this breed. However, they dont have the best skin, and to keep your bully healthy, youll have to look out for some common skin conditions that could cause discomfort and itching.

Here are 6 of the most common American bully skin problems:

1. Canine Atopic Dermatitis (Allergies)
2. Ichthyosis
3. Pyoderma and Intertrigo (Skin Fold Dermatitis)
4. Yeast Infections and other Fungal Infections
5. Skin Mites such as Demodicosis Mites
6. Eczema

Lets discuss these common skin issues and how to diagnose and treat each one. Then, Ill tell you about what causes these conditions and guide you on how to provide your pup with the care they need so that your bully can stay healthy, itch-free, and happy for the rest of their days.

1. Canine Atopic Dermatitis (Allergies)

Canine atopic dermatitis (CAD), to put it simply, is an allergic reaction. CAD is one of the most common skin problems in American bullies since they often have allergies passed down from generation to generation.

CAD usually presents itself when a dog is between six months and three years old, although it may occur later in a dogs life if they develop an allergy later from overexposure.

Certain breeds of dogs, such as American bullies, are more prone to developing CAD. My dog has it from allergies, getting bumps on the head, rashed in the armpits when exposed to an allergen.

However, this hereditary condition can also affect many other dog breeds and mixed breed bullies of any variety, so even if your American bully is a mutt, they might develop canine atopic dermatitis.

How To Diagnose CAD

CAD may be challenging to diagnose, especially since it causes symptoms that look just like those of other skin conditions.

The symptoms of atopic dermatitis are:

• Pruritus (a fancy name for constant and uncomfortable itching)
• Redness and lesions around the face, ears, belly, and butt, and inside the arm, paw, and leg joints
• Bacterial or yeast infections inside the ears as a result of constant itching
• Eczema

These itchy, red patches and lesions, characteristic of CAD, are like allergic skin reactions in humans.

The most common allergens that trigger CAD for bullies are:

• Fleas
• Pollen
• Grass
• Mold and mildew
• Certain foods, including yeast
• Bacteria that naturally colonize on a dogs skin

Diagnosing CAD requires you to make some deductions. You may need to ask yourself:

• Does my dog have fleas? If so, the skin condition could be treated by flea remedy and pest eradication in your home.

• Did my dog develop this condition due to environmental allergens such as pollen or grass? For example, if its springtime or your dog seems to be itchier every time you mow your lawn or go for a walk in thick grass, your dog might have an allergy to pollen or grass. In this case, treatment with vet-prescribed medicated baths and a daily dose of oral antihistamines is usually your best bet.

• Could my dog have a food allergy? Dogs can be born with food allergies, but they can also develop them over time. Generally, to eliminate the possibility of a food allergy, feeding your dog a wheat-free, beef-free, and dairy-free diet is the best treatment. You may also choose to have your dog tested for allergies at your veterinarian to be sure.

• Is there mold or other fungi in my home? If there could be fungal growth in your home, or if you just moved to a new residence, your dog might be reacting to the new allergens in your environment. Usually, keeping your home clean and taking your dog to the vet to get medicated shampoo, antihistamines, steroids, or allergy shots is the best treatment.

• How clean is my bully? Yeast and bacterial buildup in your bullys skin may be the cause of the allergic reaction. Keeping your bully clean and wiping off the creases in their skin is often the best way to avoid these infections, but once they set in and cause CAD, you will need to seek an antibiotic or antifungal treatment from your vet.

How to Treat CAD

CAD can be very uncomfortable for any dog, so you should take them to the vet if you suspect they have any allergies.

Vets are best equipped to determine the cause of CAD, and will tailor treatments to the underlying issue. To test for CAD, your vet will run an allergen panel on your pup, which will ensure that you know everything your bully is allergic to.

If your bully does have allergies, your vet will likely prescribe one or more of these medications and treatments:

• Medicated baths
• Antihistamines
• An allergen-free diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids
• Immunotherapy shots
• Steroids
• Antibiotics

2. Ichthyosis

Ichthyosis comes from a Greek word that means fish since this condition causes dry, flaky skin patches that look like fish scales. American bullies are prone to developing this condition in particular, and there is even a specific category of this disease that only presents in American bullies.

Ichthyosis is a hereditary disease, and it is incurable. Most bullies with ichthyosis show signs of it when they are young puppies.

How To Diagnose Ichthyosis

Diagnosing ichthyosis in American bullies is more straightforward than other skin conditions because of its unique symptoms and early presentation.

Dogs with ichthyosis present the following symptoms:

• Affected puppies have wiry hair and a thin, ragged coat
• Thick, calloused patches of dry skin with minimal hair growth
• Thickened paw pads
• Dandruff
• Greasy flaking skin that is difficult to remove or clean
• Possible cracks in the dry skin, which may cause bleeding and discharge

For a positive diagnosis, vets can take a biopsy of the affected tissue and test it. However, most of the time, ichthyosis is easy to identify with a simple physical examination.

How To Treat Ichthyosis

Although you cannot ever cure this condition, there are many ways to soothe the dry, flaky, irritated skin of bullies afflicted with ichthyosis.

Generally, topical skin treatments are the best way to soften and restore skin. Vets will usually prescribe a medicated shampoo and an oil-based moisturizer to keep the patchy skin from cracking or getting too irritated.

Regularly brushing your dog can help distribute oils throughout their coat at home, preventing breakouts and dry patches.

There are also a couple of medications, such as isotretinoin, that vets can prescribe to help with the symptoms. Still, these prescriptions usually have so many adverse side effects that they are only used as a last-ditch effort for severe cases.

3. Pyoderma and Intertrigo (Skin Fold Dermatitis)

Intertrigo is a type of pyoderma. These conditions describe severe skin irritation between a dogs skin folds from chafing, excessive moisture and heat, and bacterial infections that root in warm, humid areas.

Generally, in medical classification, intertrigo is a less severe case of skin fold pyoderma. Still, both can be called pyoderma, so if your vet diagnoses your dogs skin condition as either one, the treatment will likely still be the same.

How To Diagnose Pyoderma and Intertrigo

Pyoderma and intertrigo only affect skin folds, where your dogs skin is warmest and the most humid. This skin often rubs against itself, causing inflammation, and when the area becomes irritated, it is more susceptible to infection.

In addition, skin folds are the most common places where bacteria like to colonize, which can, in turn, irritate your bullys skin.

So, in the case of pyoderma and intertrigo, bacteria and irritation usually go hand in hand, and it can be challenging to tell which one came first.

In American bullies, you may notice this condition in the face, nose, tail, toes, armpits, ear folds, vaginal folds, or anywhere your dog has creasing, looser skin.

The most common symptoms of pyoderma and intertrigo are:

• A foul odor coming from the dogs skin folds
• Oozing or excessive heat and moisture in the skin folds
• Hair loss
• Redness and irritation in skin folds

How To Treat Pyoderma and Intertrigo

Usually, pyoderma and intertrigo are simple to treat.

If the irritation is minor, wiping the area with a benzoyl peroxide wipe and applying a steroid cream prescribed by your vet is the best treatment. This process will eliminate infections and keep the site clean and dry.

If the infection is more severe or if there are any open lesions between your bullys skin folds, your vet may prescribe an antibiotic, antihistamine, or steroid.

Dogs who get chronic pyoderma and intertrigo may benefit from a facelift, in which your vet surgically removes some of the excess skin and tissues from the affected area.

4. Yeast Infections and Other Fungal Infections

Yeast infections are by far the most common type of infection that American bullies suffer from, but several other types of fungus can also colonize on your dogs skin.

Skin-growing fungi like yeast prefer to live in warm, dark, moist environments, making your bullys joints and skin folds prime real estate for these microscopic organisms. Add extra environmental humidity or a nearby body of water to the mix, and you have a perfect recipe for infection.

How To Diagnose Yeast Infections and Other Fungal Infections

Fungal infections usually look similar to bacterial infections and pyoderma, and all of these conditions are generally present in a dogs skin folds, joints, paws, and ears.

However, there are a few ways to differentiate the two infections.

So, lets look at the symptoms of fungal infections:

• A sour, yeasty smell
• Reddened ears and/or skin folds
• Waxy, dark discharge covering the affected area
• Constant itching, chewing or rubbing
• Potential hair loss or skin flaking

How To Treat Yeast Infections and Other Fungal Infections

Usually, you will need to get antifungal cream, drops, shampoo, wipes, or spray from your veterinarian if you suspect that your dog has a fungal infection.

Generally, these products include an antifungal ingredient such as miconazole, which can kill the fungi and keep the area clean and dry for quick recovery.

However, if the fungal infection is severe, your vet may prescribe an oral antifungal to ensure that condition goes away completely.

To prevent infections in the future, keeping your dogs skin dry and clean is the best practice. If they have any skin folds, be sure to wipe them regularly to keep fungi from building up and taking over.

One more thing to note if you do any research on fungal infections in dogs, you may notice that there are tons of home remedies out there, such as tea tree oil, peroxide, and vinegar washes. However, these ingredients may cause more harm to your dogs skin than good, and none of them are tested and approved as of yet.

So, when youre dealing with fungus, its always best to go to the vet.

5. Skin Mites Such as Demodicosis Mites

Many types of mites can take over your bullys skin, but the most common type of parasite for American bullies is demodicosis mites.

Demodicosis mites, also known as Demodex or red mange mites, are commonly found on American bullies and other dogs with prominent skin folds. These mites often live on dogs with no issues, but if they begin to multiply and spread quickly, they could cause some discomfort to your furry friend.

Mites like the Demodex are more common in young dogs and puppies since they have not developed a robust immune system. However, they can infest adult dogs, too.

Demodicosis mites are microscopic, which makes them incredibly difficult to identify.

How To Diagnose Skin Mites Such as Demodicosis Mites

Symptoms of a mite infestation are:

• Hair loss and dandruff in the affected area
• Itching
• Irritation and redness
• Bacterial or fungal skin infections in the affected area

To positively identify the parasites, vets scrape the surface of the affected area to remove the outer layer of dead skin and analyze it under a microscope. If the mites are present, you have a diagnosis.

Getting your vet to diagnose the mites for you is essential since you likely wont be able to see the tiny insects on your own.

How To Treat Skin Mites Such as Demodicosis Mites

When your dog has mites, prompt and effective treatment is crucial. Mites arent just uncomfortable, but they can be contagious and do permanent damage to your pup, so if you suspect that mites are the issue, its time to head over to the vet.

Usually, the best treatment for any mites is an anti-parasitic shampoo. These shampoos can kill mites, eradicating them over a month or two of use. So, it will take patience to get rid of mites, but it is possible, and your bully will surely be grateful.

6. Eczema

Eczema is a skin condition that is very common in American bullies. However, this skin issue is not a disease. Instead, it is a symptom of a more significant problem, and most of the leading causes of eczema are even incredibly common in American bullies.

Eczema can be onset by other conditions such as CAD, pyoderma, infections, and mites. These other issues can irritate the skin so much that it develops painful, itchy hot spots where the skin either oozes or dries out in an attempt to fight off another infection, eliminate an allergen, or eradicate pests.

Still, some other factors may cause eczema, such as a lack of essential vitamins, contact with toxic chemicals or plants, or extremely hot or dry weather.

How To Diagnose Eczema

There are two main types of eczema wet and dry. Each class has different symptoms. So, eczema wont look the same in every case.

Eczema, regardless of whether it is wet or dry, has the following symptoms:

• Redness and irritation in patches
• Hot spots
• Thick skin patches
• Constant itching, often to the point of injury
• Hair loss

As the name implies, wet eczema is characterized by moist, sticky, sometimes oozing patches of skin surrounded by damp, matted fur. Often, these patches are oily and raw-looking, and they tend to bleed more than dry eczema patches since they are too moist to scab over well.

However, dry eczema looks quite the opposite. The symptoms include dry, scaly skin with dandruff, thick, hard spots, and darkened callouses. Usually, the skin is so dry that it cracks, leaving crusty discharge and hard scabs.

This condition can be challenging to diagnose since it presents itself much like many other common skin conditions on this list. Also, eczema usually means that your bully has another skin condition, so it often takes a vet to make a positive diagnosis.

How To Treat Eczema

Since eczema is not chronic or communicable, you usually have to find an underlying issue before alleviating the symptoms. However, the primary goal of eczema treatment is to lessen the itching and pain of your pup.

Medicated shampoos with anti-itch agents such as cortisol, essential oils, or oatmeal can help soften and heal eczema patches. In addition, they may be able to remove allergens, mites, bacteria, and fungi from your dogs coat, which could help you treat the underlying issue behind your dogs eczema.

Topical anti-itch sprays can also provide some temporary relief to your bully, though they wont fix the more significant issue or cure eczema.

I created this blog to share my passion for bullies, and help current and future pitbull owners with things like diet and education.

Hope you find it useful, dont hesitate to drop a comment on my articles!