Which signs indicate a chyletiella mite infestation?

Excessive dandruff and skin irritation are hallmark signs of a Chyletiella mite infestation. These mites lead to increased scaling of the skin, which presents as dandruff, and the accompanying irritation often causes dogs to scratch and groom excessively. This irritation can result from an allergic reaction to the presence of the mites as well as the inflammation they cause.

In contrast, severe skin redness and swelling may indicate various other dermatological issues or conditions beyond mites, such as bacterial infections or allergic reactions that might not be directly related to Chyletiella infestation. Hair loss on the tail and legs can be associated with other conditions, including ringworm or flea allergies, rather than specifically pointing to a mite problem. Lastly, the presence of bot flies and ulcerated skin is linked to a different type of parasitic infestation and is not characteristic of Chyletiella, making it less relevant in this context. Thus, when assessing for Chyletiella mites, the identification of excessive dandruff and skin irritation is most indicative of their presence.