Ringworm is a common infection in dogs that causes raised, red, ring-shaped marks on the skin. While the name “ringworm” may make you think of a parasite, like a hookworm or roundworm, ringworm actually isn’t a worm at all — it’s a fungal infection.1
Although ringworm isn’t a life-threatening condition, it can make your pup uncomfortable.1 Getting a vet diagnosis can help your dog feel better and get them on the right path toward recovery.
Is a Ringworm Infection Affecting Your Pup?
What Is Ringworm?
Ringworm is a highly contagious skin infection that affects your dog’s fur, skin, and nails. It happens when a group of fungi called dermatophytes infest and grow on dead skin and hair cells.2
In dogs, this fungal infection often shows up as round, hairless patches that look red and inflamed or scabby. Ringworm isn’t dangerous, but it can lead to some discomfort if untreated.1
What Causes Ringworm in Dogs?
Ringworm is caused by fungi and spreads through contact with fungal spores, which can pass between animals, people, and surfaces. Your dog might catch ringworm by touching another pet with the infection or by sharing items — like bedding, food bowls, or brushes. However, contact with the fungi doesn’t always mean an infection will occur.1,2
Ringworm’s fungal spores can live on surfaces for up to 18 months.1 This makes it easier for the infection to spread. But with proper care, further spreading can be stopped.
Since ringworm is zoonotic (meaning it can pass between pets and humans), taking small steps — like cleaning your dog’s belongings and washing your hands after handling them — can help protect everyone from this infection.1,2
Signs of Ringworm in Dogs
Know what a ringworm infection looks like, so you can get your pup the medical attention they need. Some of the most common symptoms of ringworm in dogs include:1,2
- Circular patches of hair loss
- Red, inflamed, or scaly skin
- Lesions on the skin that may scab over
- Brittle or broken hair or claws
Ringworm typically isn’t itchy. So if you notice your dog scratching, they could be exhibiting symptoms of another skin condition, allergies, or infection.1
How Is Ringworm Diagnosed?
If you think your dog might have ringworm, a visit to the vet can help you find out for sure. Your vet will likely examine your dog’s skin, fur, and nails for signs of the infection and may run some tests to confirm the diagnosis.
Here are a couple of tests your vet might do to check for ringworm:1,2
- Fungal culture: Your vet may take a small sample by scraping the affected area and sending it to a lab. This test is one of the most reliable methods for diagnosing ringworm.
- Wood’s lamp test: A special ultraviolet (UV) light, called a Wood’s lamp, can make some types of ringworm glow yellow-green. However, this test isn’t the most accurate because not all species of fungus react this way.
A clear diagnosis is an important step in treating ringworm and helping your dog feel better. Your vet will guide you through the next steps to tackle the infection and prevent it from spreading.
How To Treat Ringworm in Dogs
Treatment for ringworm usually involves a combination of steps to get rid of the infection and stop it from spreading. Most plans typically include topical treatments, oral medications, and cleaning your dog’s environment.1,2
Topical treatment
Topical treatments are often the first line of defense against ringworm. Your vet might recommend a medicated cream, ointment, or shampoo to get rid of the infection on your dog’s skin and fur.1,2
For more stubborn or widespread cases, they may suggest shaving the areas surrounding the infected patches to prevent the fungus from spreading. Topical treatments can take a few weeks or more to clear up the infection, so it’s important to finish the treatment as instructed.1
Antifungal medication
To fight the infection from the inside out, your vet might prescribe antifungal oral medications. These pills or capsules are used alongside topical treatments and are usually given for at least 6 weeks. More severe cases might take a little longer.1,2
Your vet may schedule check-ins to make sure your dog is responding well to the medications.
Home cleaning and disinfection
Because ringworm spores can linger in your home for over a year, cleaning your dog’s environment is just as important as treating the infection itself. Vacuuming and mopping regularly can help get rid of spores on carpets, floors, and furniture.1
Wash your dog’s bedding, toys, and food dishes with water and pet-safe detergent. For hard surfaces, use a vet-approved cleaner or a diluted bleach solution. Keeping your dog in certain areas while they’re being treated can also help ensure the remaining fungi are contained.1,2
Does Pet Insurance Cover Ringworm Costs?
Yes, pet insurance can typically reimburse you for vet bills related to diagnosing and treating ringworm in dogs.3 A dog insurance policy with MetLife Pet can provide coverage for exams, medications, diagnostics, and more.
For example, Milly, an English pointer from California, developed a ringworm infection and needed a vet visit. Her family took her in for an exam and diagnostics, which cost around $380. With their MetLife Pet policy, Milly’s family was reimbursed nearly $350.4
How To Spot and Prevent a Ringworm Infection
While ringworm can be tricky to deal with, there are steps you can take to help catch the infection and stop it from spreading. Here are some ways you might be able to prevent ringworm in dogs:
- Keep your dog clean and groomed: Regular baths and brushing can help you spot any skin issues early on. If your dog has long fur, consider trimming it to make grooming and inspections a little easier.
- Wash bedding and toys regularly: Clean your dog’s bedding, blankets, and toys with water and pet-safe cleaning products to get rid of potential ringworm spores.1
- Disinfect shared areas: If you have several pets, clean things they share — like food and water bowls, crates, and play areas — with pet-safe disinfectants.1
- Visit the vet for regular checkups: Taking your dog for regular vet appointments can help you stay ahead of any potential skin issues, including ringworm. Your vet can also recommend preventive measures if your dog is at a higher risk.2
By taking these steps, you can help create a healthy environment for your pup and reduce the chances of a ringworm infection. If it does happen, catching it early can make treatment much easier for you and your dog.
MetLife Pet Insurance Can Help You Protect Your Pup
Ringworm is a common but treatable condition in dogs. With the right care, your pet can recover and get back to their normal life.
To help ease the financial burden of unexpected treatments — like those for ringworm — purchase a dog insurance policy with MetLife Pet. Your furry family can get the vet care they need, and you can focus on their health and happiness. Get a quote today to help protect your pup and prepare for life’s surprises.