Best Dog Ringworm Treatment Home Remedies – Top Dog Tips

Ringworm, also known as dermatophytosis or tinea, is not actually caused by a worm. Most pet owners believe that it is a parasitic infection similar to the worms found in a dog’s stool, however this condition is actually brought on by a fungal infection. The best dog ringworm treatment options may be effective, but a serious infection may require veterinary care.

This condition causes a scaly, red, itchy patch of skin that typically takes the shape of a ring or multiple rings. This is how it came to be referred to as ringworm. The fungus lives and grows in the upper layer of the skin and in the dog’s hair follicles. Occasionally, it can also occur in the nails.

Ringworm in dogs is not a life-threatening disease, but it is highly contagious. It is a superficial infection that does not spread over the entire body. It usually stays contained to several areas of the dog’s body. If you have an older dog, young puppy or an immune compromised dog, the infection could spread extensively.

The infection can easily spread to humans or other animals in your home through contact with the infected dog. It is important to keep good hygiene in your home with frequent vacuuming and washing of your dog’s bedding.

Best Dog Ringworm Treatment Home Remedies

The first thing you must do is clean the effected area using a clean gauze pad and warm water. If necessary, shave the area using clippers. Keeping hair away from the wound will help it to stay dry and heal faster. Once the wound is clean, you can try one of the best dog ringworm treatment options.

1. Anti-Fungal Dog Shampoo

You can buy anti-fungal shampoo for dogs at most pet stores or through online retailers. These shampoos are formulated with ingredients that kill fungal infections. Follow the instructions on the bottle for bathing your dog.

Anti-fungal shampoos are made with chemicals and some ingredients that may be irritating to sensitive skin. Using one of these shampoos is the fastest way to get rid of a bought of ringworm, but they may not be suitable for every dog.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar

I recommend using organic apple cider vinegar to make a 50/50 blend of ACV and water in an empty spray bottle. Apply the spray to the effected area 2-3 times per day until the ringworm is completely gone.

Apple cider vinegar has been shown to have antibacterial, anti-fungal and antiviral properties. Do NOT use it directly on your dog’s skin, because the high acidity of apple cider vinegar could actually be harmful to the dog.

This spray should not be used if your dog has open wounds on their skin. It will sting and cause Fido unnecessary pain. You should also pay close attention to the effected areas after applying this home remedy. If you notice the ringworm patches growing larger or the itchiness seems to get worse, stop using the spray and contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.

ALSO: 6 Common and Serious Dog Skin Conditions (And What To Do About Them)

3. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has many positive effects on a dog’s skin and their coat health. It can help with skin conditions like eczema, contact dermatitis, itchy skin and generally improve skin health.

Capric acid is found in coconut oil. Researchers have found that capric acid is great not only for fighting a variety of bacteria strains, but also for preventing fungi growths.

Coconut oil can be given to dogs orally or applied topically. Adding organic coconut oil to your dog’s diet can improve his health in general. But, when using it as a home remedy for ringworm in dogs you need to rub it directly on the effected area.

Using coconut oil topically is rather simple. It’s important to start with small amounts, because your dog’s fur can get greasy if you apply too much. Just rub a bit of coconut oil between your fingers and apply it to the effected areas. Apply it 3 times per day until the ringworm is completely gone.

4. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil has powerful antifungal properties. A 2004 review of seven clinical trials found that tea tree oil is a promising treatment for ringworm. More specifically, a 70% success rate was found in a 2002 study, while an older 1992 study showed how using tea tree oil versus a placebo significantly improved the fungal conditions.

It’s important to always dilute essential oils before applying them to your dog’s skin. Straight oils could cause skin irritation in dogs. Carrier oils can be used to dilute essential oils and help them absorb into the dog’s skin.

Some of the most common carrier oils are:

• Coconut oil
• Jojoba oil
• Grapeseed oil

One of the best dog ringworm treatment options is a tea tree oil topical solution. You can make it by mixing 1 ounce of carrier oil with 10 drops of tea tree oil. Apply the solution to the effected area with a clean cotton ball 3 times per day until the ringworm is completely gone.

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