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Why does my allergic dog have oily fur, flakes, bad smell, and scabs?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 90 lbs

My sons dog is lad/Shepard mix. She is allergic to everything she has been on steroids for yrs but her fur is so oily and white flakes and bad smelling.my son is gone on tour with the Army and I'm in care of her. I walk her daily and brush her daily and shampoo 2-3 mo. She scratches and the bottom butt to her tail is one large scab!

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on January 31st, 2017

Oh wow, poor Whisky Girl! It sounds like the steroids aren't working, and her skin is just terrible. I would take her into the vet for an exam. She may benefit from medication shampoos for her skin, and a different medication for her allergies, such as Apoquel. The vet can discuss if Apoquel is appropriate or not for her, and can discuss other treatments for her skin.

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    Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    She could have a bacterial skin infection secondary to her allergies and may need an antibiotic to treat, especially if her allergies are not controlled. It would be a good idea to have her rechecked by a vet to determine the best way to treat. There is a new allergy medication called Apoquel which may help control her allergies better.

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