From the Research
Yes, yeast infections can be transmitted between dogs, though this is not common, and the most recent study 1 highlights the importance of assessing pathogenic yeast species in dogs for implications on human health. Yeast infections in dogs are typically caused by Malassezia pachydermatis, which naturally lives on dogs' skin but can overgrow under certain conditions. Transmission can occur through direct contact, especially if one dog has an active infection and another has compromised skin or immune system. Some key points to consider:
- If you suspect your dog has a yeast infection, characterized by itching, redness, discoloration, or a musty odor, consult your veterinarian for proper diagnosis.
- Treatment usually involves antifungal medications such as ketoconazole, miconazole, or clotrimazole in the form of shampoos, creams, or oral medications.
- The typical treatment course lasts 2-4 weeks, depending on severity.
- To prevent transmission between dogs, keep infected dogs somewhat isolated, don't share grooming tools, and wash bedding frequently.
- Yeast infections often result from underlying issues like allergies, hormonal imbalances, or antibiotics disrupting normal skin flora, so addressing these root causes is essential for preventing recurrence. As shown in the study 1, Candida albicans and Candida parapsilosis were the most common yeast species found in the oral cavity of dogs, and most antifungals exhibited good efficacy, although some Candida strains demonstrated resistance to fluconazole, caspofungin, and amphotericin B. It's also worth noting that, according to the study 2, the use of hydrolyzed yeast products in dogs may have some unexpected effects, emphasizing the need for reassessment and further studies using different doses. However, the most recent and highest quality study 1 provides the most relevant information for this question, and its findings should be prioritized when making decisions about yeast infections in dogs.