Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog has itchy, scabby skin. What's causing it and how can I help?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Italian Greyhound | Male | unneutered | 8 years and 1 month old | 25 lbs

My dog has itchy red/brown irritated skin along crotch & armpits and top of his head. Also has severe scabs on the inside tips of his ears that do not go away no matter what is done. I have tried ointments, hydrogen peroxide and even rubbing alcohol. Also tried oatmeal baths, hot spot sprays and coconut oil. I am at a loss!

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 5th, 2017

Hi there and thank you for using Pet Coach to address your concern. The treatments you have used so far may cause further irritation (alcohol and hydrogen peroxide) especially on scabbing areas. I would recommend the following: 1. Welactin omega 3 fish oil capsules 2. Douxo PS calm shampoo 3. Essential 6 spot on by dermoscent 4. Zymox topical ointment for any red / scabbing areas Benadryl can also be given and the typical safe dose most veterinarians recommend is 1mg per 1lb of body weight every 12 hours. This sounds like allergies based on your description. If the above does not help Raleigh, I would suggest having your veterinarian take a look at him. I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have any further questions or concerns. I am also available via phone or text based consultation if needed.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on

    I am not sure that the things you have used have done much to treat the actual cause of the itch. Many of these can further dry out skin and cause more damage for the body to heal. Common causes of itching in dogs includes fleas, mange, lice, infections (bacterial or yeast), ringworm, allergies, among others. If Raleigh is not on a monthly flea preventative, I would definitely get that started. However, the locations of the irritated skin has me thinking there is some kind of infection going. I would recommend that he be checked out by a vet to see what could be going on. The vet may recommend diagnostics such as skin scrape to look for mites, skin cytology to look for bacteria or yeast, or even bloodwork to look for endocrine disease that can lead to poor healing of the skin and itching.

    Vote icon

    0Pet 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 pet keeps scratching its ear. What's causing this problem?
Is your pet scratching their ear often? A certified Petco veterinarian explains common causes like otitis or infection and how to identify the problem.
Updated on December 04, 2025
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 pet's ear mite treatment isn't working. What else could it be?
Pet still itching after treatment? A Petco vet clarifies it may not be ear mites. Discover effective solutions like Revolution or consulting an exotic vet.
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 pet has worsening sores and scratches. Could it be an infection?
Nike's worsening sores and constant scratching worry his owner. A certified Petco veterinarian offers expert guidance on potential causes like bacterial infections and next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Book Now

Sponsored