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My dog has allergies, itchy skin, and ear problems. How to help?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered | 2 years and 1 month old | 19 lbs

I have a Jack Russell/Chihuahua mix. He is 2 years old and my husband and I have had him for a little over a year. He is on a grain-free dog food and treats due to allergies and we have to clean his ears about once per week or else he will be shaking his head because his ears are bothering him. Lately he has been chewing on certain areas. We have washed him with an anti itch shampoo that has helped some. Any more suggestions on what we could try???

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 3rd, 2017

I am sorry to hear about Diesel! Allergies can be very frustrating to deal with. We can have allergies to ingredients in food (it is usually a protein source and not a grain allergy), or allergies to things in the environment like pollen, grass, dust, etc. If he isn't already on a fatty acid supplement, I would consider starting one (such as Welactin) as they can have anti-inflammatory effects in the body and reduce itching in some dogs if given daily. With mild allergy cases, sometimes antihistamines such as diphenhydramine, cetirizine, or hydroxyzine are used and are effective. You should discuss with your vet if they feel any of these are appropriate for Diesel. In severe cases we need stronger immune-modulating drugs such as Apoquel or Atopica (unfortunately these are also more expensive but can make a dramatic difference for some dogs). Sometimes these dogs also have secondary bacterial or yeast infections that may require treatment by a veterinarian as well that are contributing to the itching.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    It sounds like your dog has a skin infection, most likely caused by allergies or fleas. The allergies can be from a protein in her food (grain allergies as much less likely) or to something in the environment, like grasses, pollens, dust, etc. The allergies cause a breakdown in the skin barrier and make the dog very itchy. The excessive itching and licking cause the skin infection. I would recommend taking Diesel in to see the vet so he can be started on some antibiotics to help clear up the skin and get on a good flea control. You may also ask about a medicated shampoo, these can help clear up the skin more quickly. I would also recommend discussing with your vet some options for medication to help control the allergy symptoms like Atopica, Apoquel, or Cytopoint. Good luck!

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