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My dog has a rash and hair loss. Is it his Rachael Ray food?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 4 years and 6 months old | 72 lbs

I have a 4 year old 70 lb German shepherd mix. About a month ago I noticed a rash on his lower belly and inner thighs. This was just weeks after he was neutered and received his first set of vaccinations. I gave him an oatmeal and aloe bath but it had gotten worse and now has spread higher to his belly an under his armpit. I also gradually switched his dog food to Rachael ray food around the same time as the neuter... so now I really don't know what's wrong. Hes even lost hair in some spots help

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on August 26th, 2017

Poor Bosco! It could be the food causing the problem. It's interesting the rash start right around when you started him on the new food. I have colleagues who have reported seeing skin rashes in dogs who are eating Rachael Ray food. When their clients stopped feeding that food, the rash went away. It might be a good idea to try a different brand of food to see if that helps with the rash. Brands I recommend include Royal Canin, Hill's Science diet, Purina ProPlan, and Iams. Bosco should also see a vet for this rash, especially since stronger medications such as steroids may be needed to treat the rash. I would bring him into your vet first thing Monday.

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