Dog mites can live anywhere in a dog's fur. These tiny parasites can cause sores, itchiness and infection. These mites, which are a part of the spider family, come in many varieties, which can be treated in several different ways. Dips, lotions and medicated baths are all ways to rid your canine friend of dog mites.

Scabies, ear mites, mange and walking dandruff are all types of dog mites. Mange is typically passed from mother to puppies. Both very young and very old dogs with weaker immune defenses are prone to this type of mites. Hair loss and scaly skin are both signs that mange is becoming a problem for your dog. These symptoms can spread to the whole dog. Lotions, shampoos and dips are among the most effective treatments for mange.

Dogs with scabies are typically very itchy. Sores and hair loss are also common in dogs infected with scabies. This condition is extremely contagious and can even be spread to humans. Again, dips and shampoos are usually used to treat this canine skin condition.

The mites that cause walking dandruff are often visible in a dog's fur. Itchiness is the primary symptom, along with visible dandruff on your pet's back. A series of prescription baths is the most common treatment for walking dandruff.

Ear mites are a very serious condition. If left untreated, these dog mites can cause permanent hear loss and bleeding in the ears. Scratching around the ears, head shaking, blood or a dark, coffee ground-like substance in your dog's ear canal, and reddened skin in the ears are all signs of ear mites. Ear mites require special ear drops containing insecticides, which can be bought over the counter or prescribed by a vet.

Drops that help remove ear wax from your dog's ears will also help rid your pet of ear mites. These drops need to be applied to your dog's inner and outer ear, and massaged into the skin to ensure that the entire surface of the ear is treated. Gently cleaning the ear daily will also help remove the mites. Many vets recommend that the infected dog's entire body be treated as well, since ear mites can move to other areas of the skin.

Other types of dog mites can be treated using both over-the-counter and prescription medications. Prescriptions are available from both general vets and specialists like veterinary dermatologists. Some vets sell these medicated baths, shampoos and lotions right in there office. Prescriptions can also often be filled at large pet supply stores. Sometimes mange is treated with weekly injections of a dog-safe insecticide, though this is not common and some breeds of dogs do not tolerate this medication.

Cortisone creams can help alleviate the itchiness and skin irritation that dog mites cause. Antibiotic creams can be used to aid in the healing of sores and other skin abrasions, and prevent further infections. Removing the hair in very infected areas is another option for dogs suffering from dog mites.

Pet owners should always consult their vets before attempting to treat dog mites with a home remedy. However, some claim that the symptoms of dog mites can be eased with zinc, selenium, vitamin E, vitamin C and cod liver capsules. Others say that yogurt, sesame seed oil or boneless canned fish added to a dog's diet can help prevent this condition. Whether or not these are effective treatments is up for debate; none should be attempted without a vet's supervision.