My dog chews his itchy skin, causing bleeding. What can I do?

Question

A stray dog in my area has severe hypothyroidism..... am giving Thyroxine........also he has this lichenified skin which causes him extreme itching, he chews on the skin making bleeding wounds, I apply Gentian violet. Takfa spray, but not helping, then give antihistamine/steroid, but temporary relief...... What can I apply, please advise, thank you. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 45 lbs

Christie Long, DVM · Accepted Answer

Not sure how you would know that a stray dog has hypothyroidism, since it requires a blood test to diagnose. You cannot diagnose this disease based on the clinical signs alone, especially in this case, as hair loss with severe itchiness (reflected by his chewing) are likely caused by mites (mange), ringworm, allergies, or fleas. If the antihistamines and steroids provide relief, he may very well have an allergy, but a veterinarian should rule out the other skin problems mentioned above with simple testing. You should also confirm the diagnosis of hypothyroidism with a blood test before continuing medications.

My dog chews his itchy skin, causing bleeding. What can I do?

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