How Do Dogs Catch Mange, and Can Humans Get It?

Hair loss and crusting on the edges of the ears is a classic early sign of sarcoptic mange (canine scabies), which is probably why your vet mentioned people. Dogs usually catch it through direct contact with an infested dog, at dog parks, kennels, groomers or daycare, or through shared bedding and brushes. Wild foxes and coyotes can carry it too. Signs can take anywhere from about 10 days to 8 weeks to show up after exposure.

In people, the dog mites can burrow into the skin and cause itchy red bumps, often on the arms, neck, waist or beltline. They can't survive or reproduce on humans, so the rash is temporary and usually clears within about 2 weeks once the dog is treated. See a doctor if you're itchy and mention your dog's diagnosis.

To help prevent it in the future, treat every dog in the home as your vet advises, wash bedding, and avoid contact with dogs that look itchy or crusty. Many monthly flea and tick preventives also help protect against scabies, so ask your vet which one suits your dog. Learn more about sarcoptic mange and people.

This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.