If you have a dog with mange would it affect us humans?

Our question this week was:

Dr. Jon - If you have a dog with mange would it affect us humans? – Katie Kurrick

Answer

Hi – thanks for your email. In general, the mange and mites are very specific for dogs. They prefer not to bother humans. In some situations, they can bite humans but only for a short period of time.

For example, sarcoptic mange can cause itchy small red bumps on the arms, neck and waistline of affected humans. The sarcoptic mange mite of dogs cannot reproduce on human skin, and lesions on humans regress spontaneously in 12 to 14 days. Demodectic mange is not contagious to humans or pets.

I'm not sure which type of manage you are referring to – but here is some information on both of them.

Demodicosis (Red Mange) in Dogs
Sarcoptic Mange in Dogs

Best of luck!

Dr.