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My dog won't stop itching and has a huge scab. What's wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Australian Shepherd | Male | unneutered | 9 months and 26 days old | 55 lbs

Why does my dog keep itching and have a huge scab mark on his back area? (literally super big)

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1 Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on November 15th, 2019

Oh that looks bad. Poor Comet. This itching 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 this weekend. 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.

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