Why is my dog scratching and losing hair on his spine & belly?

Question

My dog is losing his hair around his spine and belly area. But I don’t know the cause of why this is happening and it seems to be bothering him because he keeps scratching? What should I do? Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | 67 lbs

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

Poor Omega. This scratching can be caused by fleas, mites, ringworm, or allergies. If he isn't up to date on his flea treatment, I can give you one for him. First, I would give him Capstar. It's a one time pill that starts killing fleas within 30 minutes. Then follow up with a spot on treatment, such as Advantage or Revolution. This is a treatment that has to be used once a month. You will also have to disinfect the environment. Wash his bedding in hot soapy water, and vacuum the furniture and carpet surfaces. You can use a spray to kill fleas in the house, such as Indorex, or a flea bomb would work well to kill the fleas in the home. If he is up to date on his flea treatment, I recommend taking him into the vet for an exam today or tomorrow. The vet can do blood tests, skin scrapings, and use a Wood's lamp to diagnose allergies, mites, and ringworm. Once the cause of the itching is found, the vet can prescribe the appropriate treatment. Best of luck.

Why is my dog scratching and losing hair on his spine & belly?

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