Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog is itching and losing hair. What's causing his skin issues?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | unneutered | 6 years and 4 months old | 80 lbs

I think my dog has msnsgr. He itchez n is loosing his hair

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 19th, 2017

Hi there and thank you for using pet coach to address your concern. If Logan has a bad skin infection, I would suggest having him examined by your veterinarian so that he can receive the most appropriate veterinary care for his condition. He could habe skin mites, a skin infection or allergies. Each condition requires different treatment, which is why it is important to have your vet look at him. I hope this helps guide you in the right direction. Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns. I am also available via consultation if needed.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 15th, 2016

    Your dog could be suffering from allergies, mite infection, fleas , a fungal infection, bacterial infection or endocrine disorder. Since all of these conditions require different treatments, you need a diagnosis in order to treat properly. I suggest you take your dog to your vet for a skin exam. Your vet will want to do a skin scraping and possibly blood tests. Please make an appointment soon, so he does not have to itch for so long.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 26th, 2019

    Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Cooper. It could be he has allergies, mites, or even fleas. In order to know how to treat this skin problem, it needs to diagnosed by a vet. I would take him into the vet tomorrow. The vet can diagnose what is causing his skin issues, and can treat him. Best of luck.

    Vote icon

    2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on December 30th, 2016

    Poor pup! There are a number of different problems that can cause excessive itching with redness and hair loss like this. The most common possibilities would include allergies, fleas, a bacterial or fungal skin infection, or skin mites (mange). Treatment will depend on what the underlying problem is, so I would recommend having her examined by a vet when you are able to - he/she can do some simple skin tests to help diagnose the problem and get her started on appropriate medication to treat it. In the meantime, you could try bathing her in an aloe and oatmeal dog shampoo to soothe the itching a bit until you are able to see the vet.

    Vote icon

    2Pet 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 degu has a white bump in its fur. Should I take my pet to the vet?
Worried about your pet degu's white pustule? A certified vet discusses this potential skin infection, explains why not to pop it, and guides your next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
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 dog's matted fur bled after cutting. Should I take him to the vet?
Did your pet bleed after matted fur removal? A trusted vet explains potential infection, wound care, and why immediate veterinary attention is crucial for healing.
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
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Is there a chart for dog food protein biological value and digestibility?
Dog food protein's biological value & digestibility: A vet explains why data is complex. Learn to judge quality by company reputation and your dog's health.
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