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Why is my puppy's crusty skin spreading and causing hair loss?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Catahoula Leopard Dog | Male | neutered | 1 year and 9 months old | 50 lbs

9 month old puppy has crusty skin in a couple of spots on his neck. When I first noticed I started cleaning it and putting antibiotic ointment on him which seemed to help. But it has since spread to more areas around his neck when I stopped. He doesn’t have fleas, we haven’t changed food (dry puppy food), nor has his environment changed. I believe he hurt himself and potentially caused this infection. But it’s spreading and would like advice. No open wounds. Is losing some hair with the crust.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on December 13th, 2018

It's definitely time to get Cooper into your vet if the affected area is spreading. Issues such as skin infections from bacteria, yeast, etc, or parasites such as mange can be potential causes of crusting, hair loss and irritation. Other issues such as food allergies or metabolic issues may cause similar symptoms. A vet visit along with bloodwork or samples taken of the affected areas can help narrow this down so the correct treatment can be given. In the meantime, placing an Elizabethan (cone) collar or T-shirt on Cooper may help prevent him from being able to scratch the affected area and reduce some irritation until you can be seen by your vet.

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