How to Treat Dog Mange at Home

What Is Dog Mange?

Mange is a skin disease caused by microscopic mites that burrow into or live on the skin. There are two main types in dogs, and they require different approaches. Identifying which type your dog has is the first step.

Types of Dog Mange

Sarcoptic Mange (Scabies) — Highly Contagious

Caused by Sarcoptes scabiei mites. These mites burrow into the skin and cause intense itching. Sarcoptic mange is highly contagious to other dogs and can temporarily affect humans (causing itchy red bumps).

Signs:

• Intense, relentless itching (often worse at night)
• Red, crusty skin — especially on ears, elbows, hocks, and belly
• Hair loss in affected areas
• Thickened, crusty skin in chronic cases
• Rapid spread across the body

Demodectic Mange (Demodex) — Not Contagious

Caused by Demodex mites that normally live in small numbers in hair follicles. Overgrowth occurs when the immune system is compromised (puppies, immunosuppressed dogs).

Signs:

• Patchy hair loss, often starting around the face and eyes
• Mild to no itching (unlike sarcoptic mange)
• Scaly, red skin in affected patches
• Localized (a few patches) or generalized (widespread)

Home Treatment for Mange

Mild localized demodectic mange in puppies sometimes resolves on its own as the immune system matures. Supportive home care can help:

1. Medicated Antifungal/Antibacterial Shampoo

A medicated shampoo with chlorhexidine helps control secondary bacterial and yeast infections that commonly accompany mange, soothes the skin, and supports healing.

💊 Recommended: Douxo S3 Pyo Shampoo — Contains 3% chlorhexidine and 0.5% Ophytrium. Antiseptic and hydrating formula for bacterial or yeast skin infections. For dogs and cats. 6.7 fl oz.

2. Improve Nutrition and Immune Support

For demodectic mange, supporting the immune system is key. Ensure your dog is eating a high-quality diet and consider omega-3 supplements to support skin health.

3. Keep the Skin Clean and Dry

Bathe affected areas regularly with medicated shampoo. Keep the skin clean to prevent secondary infections, which are common with mange.

4. Isolate from Other Dogs (Sarcoptic Mange)

Sarcoptic mange is highly contagious. Keep your dog away from other dogs until treatment is complete and your vet confirms the mites are gone. Wash all bedding and vacuum thoroughly.

Important: Mange Usually Requires Veterinary Treatment

While home care can support healing, most mange cases — especially sarcoptic mange and generalized demodectic mange — require prescription treatment:

• Prescription antiparasitic medications (isoxazolines like Bravecto, NexGard, or Simparica are now first-line treatments)
• Lime sulfur dips (for sarcoptic mange)
• Antibiotics for secondary skin infections

When to See a Vet

• Any suspected sarcoptic mange — it spreads rapidly and needs prescription treatment
• Generalized demodectic mange (more than 2–3 patches, or spreading)
• Secondary skin infections (pus, crusting, odor)
• No improvement after 2 weeks of home care
• Your dog is in significant discomfort