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Why is my dog itching, biting, licking paws, and has bald spots?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed

My dog is constantly itching and biting her body, mainly her tail. Now she’s licking and nibbling at her front paws. I didn’t change her food or anything that I did prior to this. But since then I’ve tried adding an egg and fish oil capsules. Then I tried only the fish oil. Now I’m trying fresh pet select added to her dry food. For her skin I’ve gradually switched her to burts bees dog wash products. But they don’t seem to be doing anything. She has bald spots on her tail and hips. Idk what 2 do

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1 Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on June 19th, 2020

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Wela. This itching can be caused by fleas, mites, ringworm, or allergies. If she isn't up to date on her flea treatment, I can give you one for her. First, I would give her 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 her 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 she is up to date on her flea treatment, I recommend taking her into the vet for an exam 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. I hope this helps!

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