Why is my dog scratching dry, flaky skin until it bleeds?

Question

Our dog had dry flaky skin on one side (believe it was due to laying on that side while ill for a few days) and has recently been scratching at it a lot. We have been putting bio oil on it, however this evening we noticed it was bleeding as he has scratched at it so much. We have wrapped it in clingfilm and a bandage and put a sock over his claws so he can't scratch at it anymore. Should we try get or do anything further tomorrow to help him? Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | 79 lbs

Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA · Accepted Answer

Simply dry skin shouldn’t be that itchy. I would recommend that you have Ricky examined by the vet to check for mange, fleas, allergies, or skin infection which could be causing the itch. Depending on the cause of the itch, there are lots of treatment options, ranging from medicated shampoos or mousses to oral antibiotics-inflammatories or antibiotics. Make sure you change the bandage daily. I don’t like air impermeable dressings like cling wrap, because most wounds need oxygen to prevent moisture from getting trapped underneath and causing additional skin issues.

Why is my dog scratching dry, flaky skin until it bleeds?

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