My dog is itchy and losing weight. What could be the cause besides fleas?

Question

My dog has been very itchy and has also been losing weight. My fiancé thinks it could be fleas, so he will be giving Squirtle a flea bath tomorrow. I’m worried it could be something else. Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | neutered | 5.5 lbs

David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS · Accepted Answer

Scratching and itchiness can be caused by various reasons such as fleas, mites ,fungal infection, bacterial infection and allergies. the first 4 needs to be ruled out before we start treating for allergies. in order to do that first de-flea him with a high quality flea treatment such as advantage spot on, if it doesn't help - take him to the vet in order to check for/treat the other possibilities. If everything is ruled out, then an allergy treatment can be started. Usually an hypoallergenic food is a good way to start together with anti histamines. if it doesn't help - the best solution is a medication called Apoquel which treats allergies with great success and without side effects.

My dog is itchy and losing weight. What could be the cause besides fleas?

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