My dog is still itchy with dry skin, sores, and hair loss. What's wrong?

Question

my black lab has been very itchy, he has been chewing his tail and feet, he now has crusty soars on the back of his neck, he is UTD on his flea and tick treatments, I have been giving him a daily antihistamine, but it doesn't seem to be helping... his skin is dry and flakey but not red and no bite marks!? ears are clean. he has rubbed his rump bald and has a half spot on his tail as well. HELP! Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Male | neutered | 6 years and 10 months old | 125 lbs

Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH · Accepted Answer

Hi there and thanks for posting! It sounds like Cooper may have a skin infection brought upon by bacteria or an allergy such as to a particular protein or an environmental allergy. I would recommend Cooper see his veterinarian for an evaluation as he may need to be placed on antibiotics if a skin infection is present. If you veterinarian also thinks this has been brought upon by an allergy, There are lots of things we can do to help control symptoms. Changing the food to a novel protein source can help if it is a food allergy such as changing to Kanagroo or Duck. Hydrolyzed protein diets can help too. If a seasonal or environmental allergy is suspected, they can test for this with a blood or skin test. Immunotherapy towards the allergen can be very helpful as well which involves giving frequent subcutaneous injections of the allergen to help build up immunity or tolerance to the suspected allergens. There are also medications out there that can at controlling the constant itching and scratching which may help as well. Cytopoint, Apoquel, or Atopica work wonders. Hydrating shampoos that contain oatmeal or aloe in them can also help soothe irritated skin. I hope this helps and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

My dog is still itchy with dry skin, sores, and hair loss. What's wrong?

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