Why is my dog's neck skin suddenly flaky and crusty? How to treat?

Question

I just noticed that my dog has excessive flaky, crusty skin around his neck. He was just given a bath two weeks ago that contains oatmeal in the shampoo. Recently I changed his joint supplement from cosequin to glucosamine; not sure if that's a factor in why the flaky skin recently apperared. He doesn't appear to be in discomfort but I don't know if the rash or flaking is going to spread. Any recommendations on how to treat this. Pet's info: Dog | Rottweiler | Male | neutered | 11 years and 6 months old | 100 lbs

Lauren M. Jones, VMD · Accepted Answer

Flaky, scaly skin can be caused by a number of conditions, including allergies, ringworm, mange, endocrine/metabolic conditions (hypothyroidism, Cushing's disease), among others. It is possible that either the new shampoo or glucosamine supplement may be related to the scaling if Boscoe is allergic to either product. However, oatmeal shampoos are most commonly soothing to the skin and rarely cause reactions. Anti-seborrhea shampoos (here is one example: http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=21564) can be beneficial for oil, flaky skin, but require twice weekly baths initially. I recommend switching back to Cosequin rather than a generic glucosamine supplement since there is very little regulation and testing behind any supplement and Cosequin is manufactured by a highly reputable company. If Boscoe's flaky skin continues or if you notice any other changes in his water consumption, urination, energy level, or appetite, he should go to his vet for further evaluation. I hope that all goes well!

Why is my dog's neck skin suddenly flaky and crusty? How to treat?

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