Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Why is my puppy sick with red bumps, panting, and dark skin?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Rhodesian Ridgeback | Female | spayed | 5 months and 24 days old | 28 lbs

My dog has been sick all her life so far. She is 5 months old and a Rhodesian Ridgeback rescue. She had pneumonia a while ago and we had to take her to the vet. Recently, she had developed red bumps all over her body and scratches herself till she bleeds. We have tried medicine, and more but it is not getting better. Her skin on her lower abdomen is turning from pink to dark grey. Today she has been lethargic, scared easily, and within the last hour panting furiously for no reason. Please help!

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on January 4th, 2019

I hate to hear that Roo is having such a bad run. Unfortunately based upon the symptoms you describe, I think another vet visit is in order. The panting can indicate distress and since she can't talk, it's important to be safe and have a physical exam preformed. Her skin issues are likely related to an underlying cause. At her age, parasites or a food allergy are most common. Environmental allergy is more common than food allergy but usually affects older dogs. Address this current issue first. Then I recommend to discuss using a product such as Simaprica to rule out parasites and feeding her a diet such as Royal Canin Hydrolyzed protein for a food trial to know if it's a food allergy. The doctor should double check whatever food they choose for Roo that it is formulated to support the growth of a puppy. I hope this helps to point you in the right direction. Please feel free to post any further questions!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?
Adopted a pet not eating hay? Dr. Stafford, a certified vet, offers expert guidance on encouraging hay consumption, including adjusting pellets and trying fresh types.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?
See red spots on your pet? A certified Petco vet discusses common causes like allergies, infections, or mites, guiding you on diagnosis and treatment options.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet keeps scratching its ear. What's causing this problem?
Is your pet scratching their ear often? A certified Petco veterinarian explains common causes like otitis or infection and how to identify the problem.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored