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Why do my dog's recurring skin infections spread when he licks?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | unneutered | 4 years and 5 months old

But my concern is he gets this yeast or bacterial infection like after every 2 months or so then vet Kees him on augmentin and terbinafine twice a day for 15 days and I have observed he does pee and few drops of urine goes on his front feet then he licks that after few days it gets red and moisture then he licks abdomen this redness gets there as well and wherever he licks there he gets red patch and moisture so why it spread where he licks ?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Paula Simons

Veterinarian

Published on April 27th, 2020

Your dog likely has underlying allergies and typically 2 weeks of antibiotics is not long enough to treat a skin infection. Most require 4-6 weeks. The problem is that if you don't resolve the cause of infection, it will always come back. I would consider trialing a hypoallergenic diet. Make sure he is on flea medication every month and consider allergy testing. Licking creates moisture and damages the skin. This creates an ideal environment for bacteria and yeast to grow, So as long as he is licking, his skin won't heal.

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