Skin Growths, Ringworm and Staph in a Great Dane

I'm sorry. Ongoing skin problems in a big dog are exhausting and expensive. Wart-like growths on the elbows and lumps between the toes in large breeds are often pressure calluses and infected follicles or cysts (interdigital furuncles), and the ringworm and staph infections suggest her skin's defenses are down. Weight gain plus skin infections that keep coming back also raise the question of an underlying hormone problem, such as low thyroid or Cushing's disease. Leftover ovarian tissue after a spay can also affect hormones.

Rather than treating each problem separately, ask your vet about looking for the root cause: a thyroid test, a screen for Cushing's, and a skin culture so any antibiotics are the right ones. A referral to a veterinary dermatologist, even for one visit to set a plan, can save money in the long run.

At home, thick padded bedding protects her elbows, and keeping her paws clean and dry and her weight down helps the skin heal. If cost is a worry, ask your vet about a payment plan, or look for a low-cost clinic, humane society clinic or veterinary school near you.

See skin infections in dogs and hair loss in dogs.

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