Terrible dry skin and itching

Moose's Mom · 03-25-2008, 10:23 PM

Moose started scratching a lot about three weeks ago, so I've been giving him oatmeal baths, thinking that it was just winter dry skin. Now I've discovered a scabbed spot on his back near his tail where he's been chewing. I've checked for fleas (none) and continued the oatmeal baths, but I can't figure out what is going on. I've made an appointment at his vet's office, but I was hoping someone here would have some advice or input.

Just to cover the bases:

His food hasn't changed
He's otherwise extremely healthy and energetic
I'm not using anything different when it comes to cleaning/laundry products

Does anyone have any suggestions on ways I can ease his discomfort until we get to the vet? Thanks!

BoxMeIn21 · 03-25-2008, 10:27 PM

What are you feeding Moose?

Moose's Mom · 03-25-2008, 10:31 PM

IAMS puppy for large breeds. It's all he's ever eaten, except for the occasional unlucky shoe.

BoxMeIn21 · 03-26-2008, 02:16 PM

Iams is a very poor quality food so I would probably start with a food switch and see if that helps. Iams uses corn and wheat in their products and those are pretty common allergens in dogs it could be he's developed an allergy. Take a look at some dog food reviews on Iams on www.dogfoodanalysis.com

http://www.dogfoodanalysis.com/dog_f...page/1/si/Iams

I would pick a food in the 4, 5 and 6 category. http://www.dogfoodanalysis.com/dog_food_reviews/

Aggie · 03-26-2008, 02:26 PM

Hate to say it but... I hope the vet doesn't find mites!

Have you tried any new bedding recently? Sometimes they can be allergic to (cedar/feathers/etc) filled bedding.

He also could have developed an allergy to something in his food, but I'd wait until the vet check to change anything- you dont' want a dog that is changing foods, possibly not eating well, and on a new med. if he does find a medical issue.

Renoman · 03-26-2008, 02:40 PM

Constant bathing is only going to dry his skin out more as it strips the oils.

Try adding Omega oils to his food. Something like Salmon oil or sardines.

I'd be hesitant to suggest any topical treatment for the spot you found.

Let us know what the vet says.