At one time or another, most dog owners will deal with mange. However, all mange is not created equal. There are three distinct types, two of which require veterinary treatment. The disease is caused by mites, and a different species causes each type of mange.

Cheyletiella is the least serious form of mange. It usually manifests itself in itching and a light dandruff over the dog's head and shoulders. The mite dies soon after leaving the host, so usually bathing the dog in a medicated shampoo is all that is necessary to treat this type of mange.

Sarcoptic mange is more serious, but usually very treatable. It can be transmitted to humans, in which case it is called scabies. Sarcoptic mange generally starts with intense itching and some hair loss. The dog will scratch furiously and can injure its skin, which can then become infected. The ears often crust over first, which is a telltale sign.

The dog will need a trip to the vet's office to confirm the diagnosis and to be treated. Ivermectin is the treatment of choice for sarcoptic mange. It is usually administered in two doses, two weeks apart. The dog may also require antibiotics and medicated baths for skin infections and itch relief. The family should be cautious about handling the dog, since sarcoptic mange is contagious.

Demodetic mange is the third, and by far most serious, type of mange. Most dogs have the demodex mite on their skin, but why some develop a sensitivity to it and contract demodetic mange is unknown. Most dogs that have this kind of mange are young. It generally starts with hair loss around the face or eyes. If the hair loss remains localized, the mange will often resolve without treatment.

In the generalized form, the demodex mites burrow deep into the skin, making it irritated and itchy. Sores follow and secondary skin infection is not uncommon. A veterinarian will want to take regular skin scrapings to make a correct diagnosis, and to monitor the treatment progress. Prompt veterinary treatment is essential for the dog's recovery.

Veterinarians are divided on the best treatment for demodetic mange. Some recommend a small, daily Ivermectin dose, along with medicated baths. This works for a lot of dogs, but many dogs, especially those in the herding group, are allergic to Ivermectin.

The other treatment is a peroxide bath, followed by an Amitraz dip. When the dip is used at least twice a week, at double strength, the results have been very good. Amitraz can produce a sedative effect, and so should be used with caution on puppies or small breeds.

When a dog has demodetic mange, it is crucial that the dog's owner follow through the entire course of treatment, for as long as the vet prescribes, even if the symptoms resolve. Demodetic mange can recur if not eradicated entirely. The vet will want to take a skin scraping about a month after the final treatment, just to make certain the disease has been eliminated. Demodetic mange is not the death sentence it once was, but an owner must be willing to follow through with the course of treatment. Prompt veterinary care is by far the best treatment for mange.