can anyone who has a maltese tell me about skin problems?

Question

I have a maltese and a cocker with food allergies. The cocker has the most problems. Causing inflammed ears and scratching. He gets an allergy shot every 6 weeks. both dogs did great on royal canine mini 30 food for 2 months. Thier coat was beautiful no stains around thier eyes from tearing or pink in thier white coat from biting themselves, and all of a sudden the maltese started biteing herself on the tale, back legs and anal area. there were also times her skin seemed brighter pink or more red than usual. I also had not had the maltese's anal glands cleaned in a while, so i did the same day i changed them from the royal canine mini 30 to natural balance duck and potatoe.I thought she had developed an allergy to corn or something in the royal canine mini 30 they were eaing. didn't think it could be because of her anal glands. what would cause her skin to be brighter pink or red at times? is it normal? was the royal canine mini 30 ok for the cocker with allergies?

Answer 1

All skin conditions are NOT allergy related. This must not be overlooked. It is very easy to look at a Westie and say "allergies. There could be an underlying thyroid condition, or the dog could have lice, sarcoptic or demodetic mange mites. Blood tests, skin scraping or biopsies may be required to diagnose these problems.
It does sound like your Maltese may have a yeast infection.
Whatever the cause, dogs with chronic skin problems need to have an ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS and APPROPRIATE TREATMENT. See your vet.

Answer 2

It's very important to seek veterinary care when dogs have skin or dermatologic conditions that do not remedy themselves within a reasonable amount of time. Actual skin condition, such as mange, need medical attention and no amount of food modification will solve this problem. When in doubt about your best friend's health, see the doctor!