Shampoo for Dogs With Malassezia Dermatitis

Shampoo therapy is an important part of treating yeast dermatitis.
Chris Amaral/Photodisc/Getty Images

Malassezia dermatitis is a yeasty skin infection common in canines. Dogs suffering from this condition can present thickened skin, darkened greasy skin, a foul odor, crusty skin, inflammation and itching. Medicated shampoos play a crucial part in the treatment of malassezia dermatitis.

Shampoo Therapy

Degreasing shampoos with benzoyl peroxide or selenium sulfide serve to remove excess skin oils that provide a buffet for growing yeast. Once the dog’s clean, veterinarians recommend bathing with anti-fungal shampoos like Malaseb. These anti-fungal shampoos contain yeast-killing agents; they must remain in contact with your dog’s skin for at least 10 minutes to be effective.

Additional Treatment

For severe, chronic and persistent cases of yeast dermatitis, topical treatment is not enough to fully eradicate the infection. In these cases veterinarians prescribe oral antifungal medications such as ketoconazole to be used in conjunction with antifungal shampoos.