- Learn the Causes of a Dog's Skin Problems Like Itching, Red Bumps and Scabbing - Jonas Balil Photo
Skin problems are a common and potentially chronic issue in pets. There are an array of potential triggers for skin problems, including food allergies, contact dermatitis, parasites, fungal infections, bacterial infections and medical conditions like hypothyroidism.
On November 23, 2008, I received the following question on my article titled "Causes of Itchy, Flaky Skin in Dogs": "My Lab recently started to have terrible itchy skin. She can not stop scratching and I have spotted red scabs and bumps. I tried making her stop but the irritation is far to great for her to resist. I believe it is this new shampoo I got her, but I am not certain. The question is how can I calm her itch and are the scabs and red bumps something to be alert about?"
Parasites and skin allergies are two problems that come to mind after reading this pet owner's inquiry, but a visit to the veterinarian will be required in order to obtain a definitive diagnosis.
Causes of a Dog's Skin Allergies and Itching
It's very possible that a shampoo could trigger skin problems in a dog, so in this situation, I would recommend bathing the dog in a special shampoo that's designed for sensitive skin. I recommend VIRBAC Allergroom Shampoo or VIRBAC Episoothe Shampoo, available at many veterinary clinics or online.
The Allergroom dog shampoo is designed for sensitive skin and it's hypoallergenic, meaning it won't irritate her skin further, while Episoothe contains oat meal and soothes the skin. If it was a shampoo that caused this itching and scabbing, it's likely there is still residue present on her skin. This can account for the itching, redness and scabbing.
It's also possible that she's experiencing a food allergy or some form of contact dermatitis. If the condition does not improve with a bath, then this is a strong possibility. If this is the case, she will need to visit the veterinarian to be diagnosed.
Parasites as a Cause of Red Bumps and Scabbing on a Pet's Skin
Now, the red bumps and scabs may be the result of her scratching. The nails can tear the skin, leaving small wounds that get infected, causing redness and scabbing. But it's also possible that this dog's red bumps and scabs are due to parasites. I think this is a very strong possibility, based on the description that was provided.
First, examine the dog's belly and inside her inner rear thighs -- if the bumps and scabs are present here (where the dog cannot scratch), it's likely these lesions are due to parasites. Many parasites like demodectic and sarcoptic mange mites live inside the hair follicles, therefore medicated dog shampoos will not kill these skin parasites, which are invisible to the naked eye. In fact, even flea bites can cause a reaction in dogs who are allergic to the bites.
If skin parasites are suspected, I strongly recommend a visit to the veterinarian for a special anti-parasite medication called Ivermectin. This medication is typically given orally or by injection.
Treatment for a Dog With Itchy Skin, Red Bumps and Scabbing
In this case, there are a couple home remedies that may be helpful for this dog's skin problems. I would bathe the dog with a medicated shampoo as mentioned above and I'd also try her on some Benadryl, as this may help to calm the itching if the problem is due to an allergic reaction.
The dose for Benadryl in dogs is 1 mg. per each 1 pound of body weight, so a 30 pound dog would get 30 mgs. The dog should get a dose every 12 hours (twice a day.) Drowsiness is the most common side effect of giving Benadryl to a dog. If the Benadryl is only somewhat effective, the dog's veterinarian may opt to prescribe a more powerful anti-histimine medication.
A hydrocortisone spray can be an effective topical treatment for a dog's itchy skin, but it will only provide temporary relief. In short, it won't cure the problem; it only treats the symptoms. Hydrocortisone spray can be found at pet supply stores, and even in the pet section of stores like Wal-Mart or Target.
Beyond this, there is little that can be done at home, particularly since a precise cause has not been identified. If the dog's symptoms persist, it will be necessary to visit the veterinary clinic for an exam. The veterinarian will examine the affected skin and he/she will likely obtain a skin scraping, which will be viewed under the microscope and/or cultured. This will enable the vet to identify parasites, fungal infections and other skin conditions.
It's important to obtain prompt treatment for a dog's skin problems, as they can be a symptom of a more serious health problem. In addition, the dog will be at risk of developing an infection, such as a staph infection so it's important to diagnose and treat the pet's skin problems as soon as possible.
For more tips, check out "Does My Dog Have Fleas? -- Itchy Skin, Flea Dirt and Scabs on Dogs."
Readers may also wish to learn more about flea control in cats and dogs.
Disclaimer: I have extensive experience in caring for animals, including sick and special needs animals, but I am not a veterinarian. I can provide information and advice based on research and my many years of experience with pet care and training, but it's not a substitute for seeking medical attention from a veterinarian.
Mia Carter - Mia Carter - Journalist, Producer/Editor & Web Writer. Carter's work has appeared on CBS and CNN.com.
