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My dog has a dry, itchy spot on his leg. Why does he keep licking it?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 3 months old | 70 lbs

Buckshot has had this dry patchy spot on his leg for about 2 weeks and chews at it like it itches. It reminds me of eczema or psoriasis on a person. I've been putting a cream on it, but he licks it when I put it on. Help?!

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 12th, 2019

I am sorry to hear about Buckshot. I would recommend having him examined at a veterinarian because with this appearance one possible cause is ringworm (a fungal infection) https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951439 . The vet can test for this fungus and prescribe treatment if that is the cause, or if they determine another cause can treat accordingly. Ringworm is contagious to people so be sure to wash your hands well after touching the area in case this is ringworm.

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    Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    I can't really tell what is going on from the photos as they are pretty dark. It appears to be a skin infection. Could be yeast/bacteria/fungal. There are two things you need to do: 1. Get an E-collar for him so he can't lick it. No matter what you give him, if he keeps licking it, it will not heal. The collar must be long enough go past the end of his nose or he will still be able to lick at it. It must stay on him 24/7 until the area has healed. ( https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/category/dog/dog-health-and-wellness/dog-ecollars ) 2. Use these mediated wipes on the lesion(s) 1-2 times per day. ( https://www.allivet.com/p-5393-douxo-chlorhexidine-3-ps-pads-for-dogs-and-cats-30.aspx ) If you do both of these things for 10-14 days and there is no improvement then he needs to see your vet. Hope this helps. Best wishes.

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