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What to do for a dog scratching a rash on its neck and shoulder?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | neutered | 6 years old | 8 lbs

For appt. 3-4 days my long hair chihuahua has a light rash on his 6th shoulder & around his collar. He's scratching it a lot. I changed his food a month ago, but just recently got a rash. I walk him daily to do his business, there is nothing that has changed. I don't know what to do to relieve him.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on May 17th, 2017

It's possible Amigo may have an issue such as an allergy to the environment, external parasites or even an infection brewing on the skin. Bringing him into your vet is best to have the area looked at and checked for these issues. Until you can get to the vet, it is best to use an Elizabethan (cone) collar or old T-shirt to keep him from scratching and chewing which can worsen the irritation. Once the cause is figured out, treatment can be anything from a day allergy medication to a course of antibiotics to help the skin clear up.

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