My dog won't stop scratching, has red spots, no fleas. What's wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Hi, my dog has been scratching constantly since I brought her home form the kennel on August 20th. She's always been an itchy dog but lately it has been way worse than normal. She is breaking her skin and has red inflammed spots on her hind legs and back rump near the tail. She hasn't had more cuts and thy are heali well but she is still scratching and biting. She is on frontline and I give her daily fastcaps as well and I check her every day and there are no fleas or flea dirt.

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD 169

Veterinarian

Published on September 10th, 2017

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Trisha! It's hard to say 100% in the pictures but Trisha may have a skin infection which can make scratching worse. She likely has underlying allergies. I can tell from the pictures that she likely licks excessively too (the fur around her vulva is red brown which is salivary staining). Plus you mentioned that she is an itchy dog in general. This time of year can also be hard on dogs with allergies. Allergies can be from food allergies (especially if allergy symptoms occur year round) or environmental allergies or atopy (also year round but can be exasperated by food or environmental allergies). I always tell my clients that a lot of dogs need to be on a few medications plus a diet change to keep them comfortable. First things first, she needs to be checked by your vet for infection. If she has a bacterial skin infection she will likely be put on an antibiotic. To rule out food allergies as the cause of her scratching I recommend changing her diet to a novel protein. Avoid chicken and choose either venison, duck or a fish. She need to EXCLUSIVELY eat just that protein, which means no table scraps or treats that don't contain the protein that you choose. You need to give the diet 2-3 months. Then I usually tell clients that their pets will then be on an antihistamine, likely apoquel (for the scratching), Omega 3 fish oils and maybe a medicated shampoo long-term. Allergies are frustrating and most pets need to be on something life long to keep them comfortable. I recommend starting with an appointment with your Vet Monday. i wish you the best and hope that Trisha feels comfortable soon!

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My dog won't stop scratching, has red spots, no fleas. What's wrong?

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