Mange is a skin condition caused by microscopic mites, which can lead to irritation, hair loss, and secondary skin infections. Mange is environmentally acquired, not genetic or congenital, and is not a reflection of breeder care or quality. At WB English Bulldogs, we educate families so they understand the causes, types, treatment, and why mange is excluded from our health warranty.
1. What Is Mange?
Mange occurs when mites infest a dog’s skin, disrupting normal skin health. There are several types of mange:
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Demodectic mange (Demodex) – caused by Demodex mites, often linked to an immature immune system in puppies. Usually not contagious to other dogs.
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Sarcoptic mange (Scabies) – caused by Sarcoptes scabiei, highly contagious between dogs and occasionally humans.
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Notoedric mange – a rarer type of mite infestation affecting cats and occasionally dogs.
Mange can cause:
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Itching, scratching, or licking
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Hair loss, red or irritated skin
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Scabs, crusts, or secondary bacterial infections
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Thickened or scaly patches of skin
With veterinary care, mange is treatable and manageable, and affected puppies usually recover fully.
(Merck Veterinary Manual; VCA Animal Hospitals)
2. How Puppies Are Exposed
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Mange is environmentally acquired and exposure can occur before or after leaving the breeder.
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Puppies may pick up mites from other animals, contaminated bedding, or household environments.
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Even healthy litters raised in controlled environments may develop mild cases due to individual immune responses.
3. Diagnosis and Treatment
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Diagnosis requires a veterinary examination, sometimes including skin scrapings to identify mites.
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Treatment varies by type but often includes topical or oral medications, medicated baths, and supportive care.
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Environmental cleaning and hygiene are essential to prevent re-infestation.
4. Why Mange Is Not Covered Under Our Health Warranty
WB English Bulldogs’ one-year health warranty excludes all types of mange because:
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Mange is environmentally acquired, not congenital or hereditary.
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Even puppies from the cleanest, healthiest litters may develop mange once exposed to mites.
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Mange is treatable and manageable with veterinary care.
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Exposure and severity vary between individual puppies, even within the same litter.
5. Responsible Ownership and Care
Owners should:
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Monitor for signs of itching, hair loss, or irritated skin
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Follow veterinary guidance for treatment if mange occurs
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Maintain clean bedding and environments to reduce the risk of re-infestation
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Consult a veterinarian promptly for suspected infestations
With proper treatment and management, mange rarely affects long-term health or quality of life.
6. Setting Proper Expectations
As professional English Bulldog breeders since 1998, WB English Bulldogs is committed to producing healthy puppies and educating families.
Mange is a common environmental skin condition, not a reflection of breeder practices. Awareness, early detection, and prompt veterinary care ensure the best outcome for your puppy.
Sources & Professional References
Merck Veterinary Manual
VCA Animal Hospitals
American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)
American Kennel Club (AKC)
