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Why is my dog shedding, scratching, and has scabs? Is it fleas?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | unspayed | 2 years and 5 months old

My dog has been shedding excessively. She's a collie mix so I assumed it was because she was too hot. She has no bald spots but has scabs on her tail from biting or scratching at it. My dad bathed her and did a flea shampoo and when he was done he found a black like moving work on his leg. Any ideas?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Sarah Box, BVSc

Veterinarian

Published on August 11th, 2018

Poor Moo!! It certainly sounds like Moo may have some flea issues. Some dogs are extremely sensitive to flea bites, and it only takes one or two to cause significant irritation and sometimes infection. I would recommend grooming her very well to remove any loose fur that she is trying to shed. You can use a for shampoo to help remove any fleas that are on her as well. However, to truely control a flea issue you need to use some sort of veterinary approved topical flea treatment. Oral monthly flea medications are not recommended in animals that have a flea bite sensitivity/allergy. You may also need to consider environmental treatment in your yard and house. Please have Moo checked over by your regular veterinarian. They can discuss what topical flea treatment they recommend and also if any other medications may be needed for itching or infection.

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