Despite the name, ringworm isn’t a worm at all. It’s a fungal skin infection, like athlete’s foot in people.
Ringworm can spread between animals and people, so early diagnosis and treatment are important to protect both your dog and your household.
Ringworm is caused by a fungus that produces tiny spores. These spores are very hardy and can survive in the environment for a long time. Infection usually happens through direct contact with an infected animal or contaminated objects such as bedding, grooming brushes or carpets.
Healthy, intact skin is quite good at protecting against infection, so dogs are more likely to develop ringworm if their skin is damaged or if their immune system is weakened. Puppies, older dogs and long-haired breeds tend to be more at risk.
Ringworm doesn’t always appear as a neat ring, and it can look different from one dog to the next.
Common signs include:
These patches are often seen on the head, ears, legs and paws, but they can develop anywhere on the body.
If you notice hair loss, scaly skin or sores that aren’t healing, it’s best to contact your vet for advice. While ringworm is relatively rare, it needs treatment to clear the infection and reduce the risk of spread to other pets or people.
Your vet may use a special ultraviolet lamp to examine your dog’s skin and coat, as some types of ringworm glow under this light. They may also take hair or skin samples to examine under a microscope or send away for laboratory testing. Lab tests are the most reliable, but they can take around 10 days for results.
Yes, ringworm can spread from dogs to people through direct contact. Infection in people is usually mild and appears as a red, circular patch on the skin, but it can be more serious in young children, older adults or anyone with a weakened immune system.
You’re more likely to catch ringworm if you have broken skin, such as a scratch or eczema. If you think you may have ringworm, contact your GP or pharmacist for advice.
To reduce the risk:
With prompt treatment and good hygiene, most dogs make a full recovery from ringworm. It can be persistent, so keep an eye out for returning signs and attend any follow-up checks your vet recommends.
Treating ringworm can sometimes be costly due to the length of treatment and the need for repeat checks.
If you’re able to, consider pet insurance while your dog is young and healthy to help with unexpected illness or injury. If your dog becomes unwell, talk openly with your vet about the options, the likely costs, and what feels manageable for you. Together, you can tailor a plan that’s right for your dog and your situation.
