Shiba Inu (Detailed Introduction)

       When we bathe dogs, their bodies and limbs are relatively easy to clean, but their faces are not as convenient to wash because we worry that the foam or water might accidentally get into the dog’s eyes during the bath. Therefore, the face is not cleaned as thoroughly. Consequently, the face tends to be dirtier and is more prone to bacteria growth, which sometimes causes itching. This is why dogs like to scratch their faces.

       There is also a commonly overlooked area: above the puppy’s eyes, the eyebrow area. This might be the deepest hiding place for mites and fungi because it is moist and warm. It is also the area we most easily neglect when cleaning or applying medication.

       Moreover, the places where dogs scratch their faces have certain characteristics. These areas are usually around the upper eyelids above the eyes, similar to the eyebrow tips. The skin there often has little bumps, likely swollen hair follicles, with colors similar to inflamed skin. There may also be dark brown mite excrement or dandruff. So we need to carefully observe where the dog scratches. If abnormal skin conditions such as those mentioned above are found and they don’t look too severe, we can first try self-treatment with medication. But be careful because the eyebrow area is very close to the dog’s eyes, so when applying ointment, try to avoid getting it into the eyes.

       It is evident that facial cleaning during dog bathing is quite important. We can spend more time cleaning the face. If we notice frequent face scratching, we should pay attention to whether the dog’s face has mites or skin disease and treat it as early as possible.