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My dog has dry, itchy skin under his front legs. Is it allergies?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Jack Russell Terrier | Male | neutered

I was given a 10 year old jack russell by a friend who can't take care of him anymore, he has rough dry itchy skin under his front legs that he bites and scratches at, she said she took him to a vet but they didn't know what was wrong. I'm thinking allergies.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on May 22nd, 2017

How lovely of you to take in this senior dog! Poor Oliver, that area under his front legs looks very uncomfortable for him! Yes, he could be suffering from allergies, and he could also have a secondary bacterial infection from biting and scratching at that area constantly. I would have him seen by your own vet or speak with your vet about referring him to a veterinary dermatologist if your vet isn't sure what is going on with his skin. The cause of this needs to be diagnosed in order for it to be treated, and it may require advanced knowledge from a veterinary dermatologist. I would have him seen by a vet today or tomorrow. In the meantime, put an Ecollar on him to keep him from biting at that area. I will put a link below on how to make one at home. http://dogsaholic.com/care/homemade-dog-cone.html

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    Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Ouch, poor Oliver! Congratulations on your new pup. I agree with your thought - allergies are the most likely underlying cause for Oliver's skin changes and itching. Allergies can develop due to sensitivities to fleas, food, the environment, or any combination of the above. In some cases, when a dog scratches excessively from allergies, they can develop skin infections with bacteria and/or yeast. Skin infections are also quite itchy, which only worsens the itch cycle. Due to the degree of inflammation and apparent thickening of Oliver's skin, I would be concerned that he may have both a bacterial and yeast infection. These infections require prescription antibiotics and antifungals for resolution. Oliver will need to go back to the vet to have this issue addressed. Also be sure that he is receiving a high quality flea and tick preventative (such as Nexgard, Bravecto or Advantix) regularly to prevent fleas and eliminate this potential allergen. The vet will be able to discuss if diet changes or other allergy management medications are needed at this time. I hope that all goes well!

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