My dog won't stop itching, smells bad, and has skin sores. Help!

Question

My dog is always itching around her neck, face, head, and biting at her arms and legs. She has red sores under her chin and is always bleeding. She also smells very bad, and I think it's because of her skin problems. I've changed her food to a grain free diet, but it's not working. Why is she itching so much and why does she smell so bad. Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Female | unspayed | 7 lbs

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

It sounds like Princess may have a skin infection from all the itching, which would cause her to smell so badly. This itching can be caused by fleas, mites, ringworm, or allergies. If she isn't up to date on her flea treatment, she will need a spot on treatment such as Advantage or Revolution. You will need to disinfect the environment as well. Even if she is up to date on her flea treatment, I recommend taking her into the vet for an exam tomorrow. The vet can do blood tests, skin scrapings, and use a Wood's lamp to diagnose allergies, mites, and ringworm. Once the cause of the itching is found, the vet can prescribe the appropriate treatment. She will also need treatment for her smelly skin, and if it is caused by a skin infection, she may need antibiotics and medicated washes to treat it.

My dog won't stop itching, smells bad, and has skin sores. Help!

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?

Is Purina Layer Pellets good for chickens? What other feeds exist?

My mice eat all their food together from one bowl. Is this normal?

Why is my new pet biting? Is she stressed or scared in her new home?

Share