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Why is my 8-week old puppy itching with scaly, yellow crust?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 2 months and 3 days old

My 8week old Chug has been itching for 3days now. He constantly bites at and licks his tail and hind legs as well as his nose. His tale is VERY scaly and dry and is constantly flaking and I've noticed some dry, yellow, puss looking crust on his tail along with the flakes that come off as he itches. I have given him a bath in Dawn as well as given him Benadryl as his vet instructed. I am looking for a second opinion as to what will help? Is there a topical solution I could put directly on him?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on November 3rd, 2016

This is probably caused by an allergic reaction. first of all make sure you flea Java regularly every month with a high quality spot on (ex. Advantage) as fleas are by far the most common reason for these reactions. It could also be a mite infestation which can be detected by your vet taking a small sample from the skin. If the fleas or mites are not the problem, it could be an allergic reaction to food or an environmental factor. this is more complicated to treat and will sometimes require medications such as Steroids or anti histamines in order to stop the allergy.

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    Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on December 20th, 2016

    Poor Kaya! There are a number of things that can cause excessive itching and yellow crusty skin in a puppy this age. The most common possibilities would be allergies, fleas, a bacterial or fungal skin infection, or skin mites (mange). I would recommend having Kaya examined by a vet as soon as you are able to - he/she can do some simple skin tests to help diagnose the problem and get her started on appropriate medication to treat it. In the meantime, you can try bathing her in a chlorhexidine dog shampoo to help get rid of the crusty discharge and make her a bit more comfortable until you can see the vet.

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