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Why are my small dogs constantly itching if they don't have fleas?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered | 5 years and 6 months old | 15 lbs

My three small dogs constantly itch. They do not have fleas and I bathe them once a week using an oatmeal based dog shampoo. They all eat Purina True Instinct canned food twice a day. I cannot afford to have all three tested for allergies. What do you recommend.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on April 17th, 2017

You would be very unlucky to have all three dogs with skin allergy!! If you (or your vet) already ruled out fleas, mites and skin infection can be responsible for this presentation. A check up for one would be enough probably for all of them and some basic skin tests (skin scrapes for example) can rule out these differentials. I think a check up at your local veterinarian would be the best option. Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation (where you can post pictures ) if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

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