For example, rashes on the back, around the tail, on his legs and/or around his abdomen are often (but not always) an indication of an allergic reaction. You should also look for hot spots, which are lesions on the dog’s skin, often caused by an allergy. The skin will be warm, moist, pink, and painful for your dog. These lesions are infected and need to be treated by a veterinarian. [1] X Research source
If the rash doesn’t seem to be bothering him, then it is unlikely to be caused by fleas or an allergic reaction. In this case especially, the rash may be caused by an underlying health issue that could be very dangerous. If the rash does seem to be bothering him, then it may be caused by fleas, ticks, or allergies, which will cause your dog to scratch constantly. It is important to understand that just because a rash doesn’t seem to be bothering your dog doesn’t mean it is ok to ignore it. A rash could be a sign of a more serious health condition.
If it is especially hot out, you should make sure that your dog has plenty of cool water to drink, and enough shade so that he can easily get out of the sun.
If your vet isn’t sure, or doesn’t want to make any diagnoses without seeing the dog in his office, don’t press the issue! Take your dog into the vet so he can be checked out properly. A vet will cost you money, but many vets are more than willing to work out different payment options. In the end, taking your dog to the vet will save you and your dog time and suffering. If you try treating him yourself, you may end up wasting money on products that aren’t necessary anyway.
If you are worried about the cost of a visit to the vet, then discuss different payment options with him/her. Many veterinarians will be happy to work out a payment plan with you.
Corticosteroids can help with itchy rashes, but it is more important to determine the allergen, and do your best to limit your dog’s exposure to the allergen. Ask your veterinarian about allergy testing. Because there are many, many different sources of allergens, it will likely be difficult for you to determine the allergen on your own. A vet can help you systematically eliminate different allergens from your dog’s diet and lifestyle.
It is very important that you have a yeast infection treated properly, as untreated infections in the ear can lead to deafness. [4] X Research source Adding acidophilus to your dog’s diet may be helpful in preventing these infections, if your dog is prone to them. Acidophilus is a probiotic bacteria that is important for a balanced gastrointestinal tract. You can give this to your dog by adding plain, unsweetened yogurt or an acidophilus supplement directly to your dog’s food. [5] X Research source
If you believe your dog is suffering from folliculitis, you will need to visit the vet as this infection can usually only be treated with antibiotics.
A topical solution can usually treat this affliction, but if left untreated, it may spread.
If you believe your dog is suffering from fleas, try giving him a flea bath. Your veterinarian can recommend a good product to mix with water and apply to the skin. You can also find them at high quality pet supply stores. Bathing your dog with a flea killing soap can help alleviate skin irritation, and will kill some of the fleas, but understand that this will only be a temporary solution. You will have to take further steps to get rid of your dog’s flea problem.
A bump under the skin might indicate a cancerous tumor, so it should be biopsied by a vet in order to rule anything out. [9] X Research source
Sarcoptic mange is caused by an infestation of a parasitic mite. These mites burrow into the skin where they hatch eggs, and then come to live on the top of the skin. They prefer areas of the body that have little hair, such as the stomach or under the ear flaps. These mites are very irritating and itchy, and may cause red scaly skin. [10] X Research source Be aware that this type of mange is contagious to other dogs and humans, so you should see your vet right away if you think this might be the cause. Demodectic mange is also caused by mites, but these mites are naturally found on many dogs. The mites usually only cause a problem if the dog’s immune system is not functioning properly, so it is important to get your dog checked out for any other underlying problems. [11] X Research source This type of mange usually presents as scaly bald patches around the eyes and/or mouth. It is slightly contagious between dogs, but humans cannot contract it.
If the rash feels warm, and it is also during a hot day, placing the tea in the fridge may provide extra comfort for your dog.
You can make your dog an oatmeal bath by grinding up some oatmeal in a food processor and adding it to some water (how much oatmeal you need depends on the size of your dog, but you will want to use enough so that it creates a very diluted, runny mush). Then let your dog soak in this mixture, which will work well against itchiness. Be sure to rinse all of the oatmeal off of your dog when he is done soaking. [13] X Research source It is also possible to buy oatmeal shampoos at your local pet store. These are meant to work in the same way, but come pre-made for your convenience.
Choose a food that has a protein on the label first, instead of a carbohydrate. The food should also list essential fatty acids on the label. You can also consider purchasing an essential fatty acid supplement that you can add to his food. For healthy skin, omega 6 fatty acids are essential. These include: linoleic acid, gamma linolenic acid, and arachidonic acid. You can also add evening primrose oil to his food. [14] X Research source Make sure that your dog always has a bowl of clean, fresh water to drink! It is important that you change his water out each day.
If your dog spends time inside, you should also make sure that you vacuum your rugs every two to three days to get rid of anything that might be harmful or irritating. Keeping his bedding clean can also be helpful in getting rid of rashes because it may be something in the bedding itself that has irritated his skin in the first place.
It may also be possible to give your dog vitamin E oil orally, but you should check with your vet before doing this in order to determine the correct dosage. You may also be able to add the oil directly to his food.
