Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My puppy has bald spots & flaky skin on paws after fleas. Mange? Vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female | unspayed | 1 month and 7 days old | 4 lbs

We got a puppy and when we brought her home we bathed her and she had so many fleas and ticks! I felt so bad for the poor thing! The previous owners obviously didn't care for her. But she has these little bald spots on her paws that have flaky skin do you think it's just dry hair or maybe hair loss from the fleas? Or could it be something worse like mange? I haven't really seen her lick her paws or bite them so I'm guessing they don't itch? Should I take her to the vet or just see if it improves

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 8th, 2017

Poor girl. With so many external skin parasites on her then hair loss due is common to occur. There is no harm in waiting 1-2 weeks to see if the hair starts to grow back on its own. As long as she isn't chewing her paws excessively and seems bothered then it's ok to wait things out for now. Also try an oatmeal based puppy shampoo to hear her skin. When she is at least 6 weeks of age then visit your vet to get her on topical Revolution to protect her from future infestations. Monitor her behavior as well and if she acts ill in the next few days then it's best to get her seen to make sure she didn't pick up a big from the many parasites she had on her. Best wishes with your new puppy Reina and I hope everything goes smooth from here on out with her new responsible owner. Take care.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on

    Since she's a new pet, she should be examined by your veterinarian. The spots don't look like mange but it is difficult to determine with only an image to go by. When she is 8 weeks old, you can use Frontline Plus on her every month to protect against fleas and ticks. Frontline Spray can be used until then to treat for fleas. You should also treat the environment for fleas as well. Vacuum everywhere Reina has been and wash all bedding. She should be dewormed by your vet since fleas carry tapeworm and puppies are frequently infected with roundworm.

    Vote icon

    0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
New Pet
Why is my new pet biting? Is she stressed or scared in her new home?
New pet biting? A Licensed Vet Tech shares expert advice on how to gently acclimate your new companion to their home, reduce stress, and build trust. Get guidance for a happy pet.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?
See red spots on your pet? A certified Petco vet discusses common causes like allergies, infections, or mites, guiding you on diagnosis and treatment options.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet keeps scratching its ear. What's causing this problem?
Is your pet scratching their ear often? A certified Petco veterinarian explains common causes like otitis or infection and how to identify the problem.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored