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Dog still itching with scabs after Benadryl. Should I go back to vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | unneutered | 8.7 lbs

Hi there I have a 6 year old Chihuahua, three weeks ago I took him to the vet to get his annual rabies shot. His allergy scabs were mild and only had few blotches, the vet had told me it was fine he just had imflamated skin areas. She recommended Benadryl and sent us on our way. I've been giving half a tablet since, and I do see him itching less but I've been seeing more and more scabs. I don't know whether to take him back to the vet or is there something I should give him?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Karly Macon, DVM, MS, CVA Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Veterinarian

Published on November 20th, 2017

Tobi appears to have allergic skin disease, which sometimes involves secondary bacterial or yeast infection as well as the itchy skin. The raw patches and scab areas on Tobi make me think that he may need to be on antibiotics. Benadryl is usually not very effective for moderate-to-severe itching, and there are special allergy drugs designed just for dogs that work much better to help with allergies. I would ask your vet about Apoquel and Cytopoint medications for allergies. Also, Tobi probably needs to be on antibiotics but he would need a test like a skin culture to know for sure. Hope that helps!

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    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.

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