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My dog scratches her face raw. How to stop itching and heal wounds?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 35 lbs

What should I do to heal my dogs self inflicted scratch wounds on her face due to constant itching? I put wound and care spray on the open scratches and have been keeping a close eye on her and encouraging her to sleep so she can heal, but she keeps scratching them open any chance she gets! I don't want her wounds to get infected by her nails or anything else that can cause an infection! She also keeps licking all her feet and biting at both hip areas where there is now some hair loss.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on October 15th, 2021

First, place an e-collar (cone) on her to prevent further scratching. Keep it on her 24/7. You can take it off when she eats or drinks, but monitor her closely so she doesn't start scratching again. Next, have her seen by your veterinarian. The licking, biting, scratching and hair loss may be due to allergies ( https://www.petcoach.co/dog/condition/canine-allergies ). These can be difficult to diagnose since there are many causes (inhaled, environmental, food, fleas). Discuss allergy testing, food elimination trials and antihistamine use with your veterinarian. The doctor may prescribe medications to treat the wounds and stop the scratching. https://www.petcoach.co/dog/condition/food-allergies/ https://www.petcoach.co/article/4-great-strategies-for-relieving-your-dog-s-allergies/ https://www.petcoach.co/article/seasonal-allergies-in-dogs-what-you-need-to-know/

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