Why is my dog itching, biting, losing hair and getting redness in certain spots and what would be the treatment?

Original Question: I have a 3-year-old Morkie and who is on a raw food diet and for the past 2 years I've noticed in certain areas it is red where she is itching, biting and losing hair. I have tried aloe probiotics and we have tested her with the vet and they can't figure out what is wrong with her. I am not sure how to stop this. - Sangeeta

Why is my dog itching, biting, losing hair and getting redness in certain spots and what would be the treatment? Nov 29, 2017

Hi Sangeeta,

It sounds like you have already done a lot for your dog, and I know how frustrating it can be dealing with an itchy pet! There are many things to consider and rule out in a case like this – external parasites, bacterial or yeast infections, food allergies, environmental allergies and endocrine disorders are some of the most common possible causes. The only way to narrow this list down is to do some testing – this may include skin scrapes and cytology, cultures, blood work and diet trials, sometimes on several different diets over a period of months. It is important to try to narrow down the cause so that we can provide the most appropriate treatment. There are a lot of new diets and medications available now that are very helpful for treating itchy pets – depending on the cause. Your vet can guide you further on this.

Good luck!

Dr. Kim Hester

Disclaimer: healthcareforpets.com and its team of veterinarians and clinicians do not endorse any products, services, or recommended advice. All advice presented by our veterinarians, clinicians, tools, resources, etc is not meant to replace a regular physical exam and consultation with your primary veterinarian or other clinicians. We always encourage you to seek medical advice from your regular veterinarian.

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