Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog has spots on his skin. Is it an infection or allergy?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | 6 years and 7 months old | 8 lbs

My dog has these spots on his chest and stomach and elbow what do I do ?

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 Daniel Fonza, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 19th, 2017

From the pictures you provided, it looks as though Pookay may habe a skin infection. I would have your vet take a look at this to confirm and ensure it is nothing else. If you are unable to get to your vet to have him seen, then I would recommend you start Duoxo chlorhexidine PS combination shampoo and bathe twice weekly until resolved. If it is not improving then I would get to your vet sooner for additional treatments. Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns. I am also available via consultation.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    These spots may be due to something irritating his skin. I would check to see if there is anything new in the environment that he would be laying on. This could be new bedding, some chemical sprayed on the floor or grass, or some other new type of material (like fiberglass) that could be on surfaces he's laying on. This also may be an allergy to grass. The best thing you can do now is give a cool water bath with a medicated shampoo (you can find this in the pet store). You can follow the shampoo with an oatmeal based conditioner for dogs. This will provide a little relief and help prevent infection. You can repeat the bath every 2-7 days as needed. If it's not getting better, then it would be best to have him checked out by a vet, because this could also be due to mange (a microscopic mite). I hope that helps and Pookay gets better soon.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

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
Health & Wellbeing
My rat is losing weight and has breathing issues. What should I do?
Dambo's weight loss, rough breathing, and mucus worry you? A Petco veterinarian addresses these concerning symptoms and recommends urgent professional care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has a soft lump. How long can I wait before seeing a vet?
Discovered a soft, nickel-sized lump on your pet's chest? A certified veterinarian offers expert advice on tracking changes and when to seek professional evaluation.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My ferret has bloody urine and bladder stones. Is it an emergency?
Ferret has bloody urine, possibly bladder stones? A certified vet advises if waiting until tomorrow for an appointment is safe, especially if he's still urinating.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My bird has PFBD. Is chest trembling a normal sign or a symptom?
Cloudy has PFBD and chest trembling. Is this normal? A certified Vet Tech explains potential secondary issues like infections and advises vet consultation for testing.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Dog licking paws, fur loss, and jaw wound: Could it be allergies?
Is your Shih-Tzu crossbreed biting his feet, losing fur, or has a wound? A trusted vet explains these classic allergy signs and advises on treatments like Apoquel or medicated shampoo.
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Book Now

Sponsored