Stop the scratching – many pet owners have dealt with the problem of uncontrollable itching caused by ingrown hairs on their beloved shar pei. Seeing your furry companion in distress isn’t easy, so it’s important to be aware of what this condition looks like and how to manage it.
Whether you’re a seasoned dog owner or a first-time fur parent, our complete guide on ingrown hairs in dogs will help you understand everything there is to know about these unsightly and often uncomfortable bumps! Learn all about diagnosis, treatment options, preventive care strategies for both men and women alike, and more here.
What causes ingrown hairs in dogs?
An ingrown hair in a dog is typically caused by hairs growing beneath the skin as opposed to growing outward within a normal hair follicle. This is similar to what happens when humans, particularly men, get razor bumps in areas of their face and neck after shaving. So while, thankfully, our furry friends typically won’t be hitting up the barbershop anytime soon, they can still unfortunately suffer from those pesky ingrown hairs!
In addition to improper or infrequent brushing or combing of a dog’s fur coat, other causes may be due to poor nutrition and an unhealthy coat leading to hair follicles that don’t work properly. No matter the cause of ingrown hairs, however, regular grooming and healthy nutrition are always important for maximizing your pup’s skin health!
How do you prevent ingrown hairs on dogs?
Taking action to prevent ingrown hairs in our furry friends can be as simple as regular brushing and grooming their coats. Brushing helps distribute the natural oils that keep the hair healthy and can help aid growth ensuring a good level of skin health too.
To avoid excess ingrown hairs give high-risk areas such as the neck, armpits, and butt extra attention while brushing; detangling any knots or matting is also important here. When bathing, it’s important to use shampoo designed specifically for dogs – this helps ensure that there is no irritation due to an incorrect pH balance.
Finish up your bathing routine with a conditioner targeted towards the removal of tangles which will come in handy when down to the dreaded detangling! Regular maintenance is key when it comes to keeping your pup’s coat looking and feeling its best.
What is the best treatment for folliculitis in dogs?
Folliculitis is a common skin condition in dogs that occurs when their hair follicles become inflamed. Luckily, there are treatments available to help manage this condition and get your pup’s fur back to looking fabulous.
The best treatment depends on the severity of the condition, but some options include antibiotics, topical medications, and special shampoos. Another important factor to consider is whether it is an internal or external infection; if it’s external, simply cleaning and drying the area should help reduce irritation.
Of course, a vet visit is recommended before beginning any treatment protocol to get an accurate diagnosis and determine a customized plan for your furry family member.
How can I treat my dog’s ingrown hair at home?
At-home treatment for ingrown hairs on your dog can be simple and effective. Start by cleaning the affected area with a gentle antiseptic solution to prevent any further irritation or infection of the area. After that, carefully remove the hair from the skin using tweezers or warm water to soften the fur, making it easier to pull out.
You may need to repeat this process a few times until all of the ingrown hairs have been removed. You should also apply a thin layer of an antibiotic lotion or an aloe vera gel to hydrate and soothe the skin following removal. This can help prevent any scars or infections and provide relief for your furry friend.
Summary: Your Complete Guide to Ingrown Hairs on Dogs: Treatment, Symptoms & Prevention
In summary, ingrown hairs on dogs can be a real pain for both your pup and you. But the good news is that there are treatments available and prevention techniques to keep them away for good.
Additionally, speaking with your vet sooner rather than later can help get on top of any potential concerns so your furry friend can start feeling better soon. It’s important to remember that there may be underlying issues in some cases which is why staying up to date with regular checkups is essential when it comes to your pet’s overall health.
As long as you take steps to prevent ingrown hairs and stay vigilant, you and your doggo can make sure they don’t interfere with all their outdoor adventures!
