My 8-month-old Lab has red, crusty skin. Is it allergies or fleas?

Question

I have a 8 month old yellow lab. He is having skin issues. It does not seem to bother him. I see him licking it sometimes. His armpits are red too and there are some spots here and there. One on his chest is really crusty. He eats grain free food, but sometimes gets snacks that are not. Is it allergies? It started about a month or two ago and he was outside on his leash for long periods of time playing with his girlfriend dog. He is not taking flee/tick. I heard it causes cancer so I don't use. Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Male | unneutered | 8 months and 26 days old | 60 lbs

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

Ouch, poor Hike! That rash look really uncomfortable to him. It could be due to contact allergies, a skin infection, or a flea allergy. I'm not sure where you heard that flea and tick medication causes cancer because it doesn't. While any medication can have side effects, it is safe to use on dogs and is recommended highly for his health. At the end of my answer, I can give you a flea treatment program for him. As for the rash, I would have Hike seen by a vet for it. The vet can diagnose what is causing the rash and can treat him for it. Flea treatment program: First, I would give him Capstar. It's a one time pill that starts killing fleas within 30 minutes. Then follow up with a spot on treatment, such as Advantage or Revolution. This is a treatment that has to be used once a month. You will also have to disinfect the environment. Wash his bedding in hot soapy water, and vacuum the furniture and carpet surfaces. You can use a spray to kill fleas in the house, such as Indorex, or a flea bomb would work well to kill the fleas in the home.

My 8-month-old Lab has red, crusty skin. Is it allergies or fleas?

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