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My dog bites himself raw after fleas. What can I do to help him?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | unneutered | 75 lbs

My dog has been having the skin problems. It started when he got fleas, we got rid of the fleas but he started having these issues. He choose himself and bites himself open, I tried putting healing balm on him but he keeps biting himself anyway. Any help would be ridiculously appreciated. I just need to know what I can do to help him.

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1 Answer

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Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 24th, 2020

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Grohl. I recommend that he sees a veterinarian. He sounds very itchy. If he is causing wounds to his skin from scratching, he likely cannot be managed with at home care. There is likely a secondary skin infection caused by his self trauma. This will need to be addressed with medicated topical products or oral antibiotics. He will then need an anti-itch medication to break the cycle. There are several options available such as oral steroids, Apoquel or even an injectable drug known as Cytopoint. The veterinarian will guide you as to what would work best for him. In the meantime, you can bathe him with a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner such as an oatmeal or fatty acid based formula to soothe the skin. Then place an E-collar on him to help limit any further self trauma. I hope this information helps!

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