Seborrhea in Dogs: Greasy, Flaky Skin
Seborrhea causes excessive scaling, greasiness, and odor. It's often secondary to an underlying condition that needs diagnosis.
Seborrhea is a skin disorder characterized by abnormal scaling (dandruff), greasiness, and often a foul odor. It can be primary (genetic, breed-related) or secondary to allergies, hormonal disease, or infection. RVC can determine the underlying cause and provide a management plan.
Key Points
- Primary seborrhea is genetic; secondary seborrhea is caused by underlying disease
- Breeds predisposed: Cocker Spaniels, Springer Spaniels, Westies, Bassets, Labs
- Symptoms include excessive dandruff, greasiness, odor, and secondary infections
- Diagnosis requires ruling out underlying causes with blood tests and skin testing
- Treatment includes medicated shampoos, fatty acid supplements, and treating underlying disease
- Seborrhea is usually manageable but not curable
Primary vs Secondary Seborrhea
Primary seborrhea is an inherited defect in skin cell turnover — cells multiply too quickly, causing buildup and scaling. It starts in young dogs (under 2 years) and is lifelong. Breeds: Cocker Spaniel, English Springer Spaniel, West Highland White Terrier, Basset Hound, Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever. Secondary seborrhea is much more common — caused by allergies, hypothyroidism, Cushing's disease, poor nutrition, obesity, environmental factors (low humidity), or skin infections.
Symptoms
Dry seborrhea (seborrhea sicca): excessive white flakes, dry dull coat, mild itching. Oily seborrhea (seborrhea oleosa): greasy coat, yellow-brown scales, waxy odor, thickened greasy skin in skin folds. Many dogs have a combination. Secondary bacterial or yeast infections are common and cause redness, odor, and itching. Skin folds (armpits, groin, between toes) often have the worst greasiness and odor.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis starts with history and physical exam. For adult dogs with new-onset seborrhea, underlying causes must be ruled out: skin scrapings (mites), skin cytology (yeast/bacteria), fungal culture (ringworm), allergy testing, thyroid panel, and ACTH stimulation test (Cushing's). Primary seborrhea is diagnosed when no underlying cause is found and the dog is a predisposed breed with young age of onset.
Management
Management is lifelong for primary seborrhea. Key elements: medicated shampoos (salicylic acid, sulfur, tar, benzoyl peroxide) used 2-3 times weekly initially, then weekly for maintenance. Antiseborrheic shampoos reduce scaling and normalize cell turnover. Fatty acid supplements (omega-3 and omega-6) improve skin barrier function. Treat secondary infections with antibiotics or antifungals. For primary seborrhea, topical retinoids or oral synthetic retinoids may help in severe cases.
When to See a Vet Immediately
- Excessive dandruff that doesn't improve with regular bathing
- Greasy coat with strong odor
- Red, inflamed skin with secondary infection
- Hair loss along with scaling
- Young dog of a predisposed breed with early scaling
- Any skin changes that worsen despite home care
How RVC Can Help
RVC provides comprehensive dermatology services including skin diagnostics and treatment plans for seborrhea. Call +853 6677 6611.
This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary advice. If your pet is showing any symptoms, please contact Royal Veterinary Center immediately at +853 6677 6611.