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Why is my 6-month puppy scratching, losing hair, and smelling bad?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | unspayed | 6 months and 16 days old | 30 lbs

Pup 6 months. Since had her licks scratches constantly. Fee,t top of ears, nose, red and thinning hair. Belly red where no hair. Scrapes feet on carpet or grass as to be trying to scratch paw pads. Has bad odor.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on December 17th, 2016

Poor pup! There are a number of things that can cause excessive itching with redness and hair loss in a puppy this age. The most common possibilities would include allergies, fleas, a bacterial or fungal skin infection, or skin mites (mange). Treatment recommendations will depend on what the underlying problem is, so I would recommend having Princess examined by a vet as soon as you can. He/she can do some simple skin tests to help diagnose the problem and get her started on appropriate medication to treat it.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on January 17th, 2017

    Poor Hugo! There are a number of different things that could cause excessive itching and hair loss in a puppy this age, even if he doesn't have fleas. Some common possibilities would include allergies, a bacterial or fungal skin infection, or skin mites (mange). Treatment will depend on what the underlying problem is, so I would recommend taking him to the vet for an exam - he/she can do some simple skin tests to help diagnose the problem and get him started on appropriate medication to treat it.

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