He is not scratching at it it nor does it seem to be itching. What are some reasons this might be happening?
2007-04-11 15:06:34 · 6 answers · asked by mmc0330 2 in Pets ➔ Dogs
Could be possibly due to allergies (are you feeding a dog food that contains corn?
However it sounds like demodectic (AKA puppy or red) mange to me. The mites are always present on a dog's skin, but dogs whose immune systems are compromised or not fully developed (like a puppy) cannot fight them off as they should. Easily diagnosed by your vet via a skin scraping; treatment consists of either a series of "dips" or oral pills. It looks horrible, especially in advanced stages, but surprisingly is not contagious.
If it is puppy mange you should contact the breeder you got the animal from as it is possible others in the litter are affected; also they should stop breeding a female who is possibly throwing immune-compromised pups...
http://www.animalhealthchannel.com/fleasticksmites/mites/demodectic.shtml
2007-04-11 15:25:39 · answer #1 · answered by Karen W 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There's a possibility of mange (as described earlier) or it could be a deficiency in his diet that is affecting his coat. Either way you could visit your vet and if it's not mange and the vet doesn't offer any suggestions for his diet (or none you like -- remember, don't necessarily bet on your vet being an expert on every single thing, including nutrition) then you could do some research on all natural or raw diets. You don't have to necessarily switch to these diets unless you want to, but odds are you'll come across something that you can do for his coat. I'd offer some suggestions, but I can't remember any with guarantee of the top of my head.
Good luck with this.
2007-04-11 22:34:27 · answer #2 · answered by Noah George 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
My guess is mange, allergies, or a diet issue (in that order). Mange can be contagious, so it's important to get it diagnosed (or ruled-out) by a vet as soon as possible. Allergies and diet deficiencies can be treated with special food, medication, and/or supplements.
Good luck!
2007-04-11 23:35:57 · answer #3 · answered by Angela H 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sounds like mange to me. You should check with the vet, they have medication to cure it.
2007-04-11 22:09:25 · answer #4 · answered by Angelo C 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
could be one of two things mange or poor breeding
2007-04-11 22:12:02 · answer #5 · answered by gunter_thehunter 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
thats strange I'd see a vet
2007-04-11 22:12:00 · answer #6 · answered by h.ritchie 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋