Can someone help me with my dogs skin irritation?

Question

My dog has some slight hair loss, the hair that is left is getting a reddish tint, and her skin is getting discolorations. The hair that is turning red is only in the spot of the discoloring skin.

Answer 1

Dog Health:
Hot Spots

Hot spot(s) occur usually in the dog, and are characterized by red, inflamed patches of skin which can ooze a clear or yellowish discharge.

These areas are extremely sensitive to the dog, and actually are a result of the dog constantly licking, biting, or scratching an area of skin until raw and inflamed. The cause of a hot spot can be a number of things, but usually anything which can result in the release of histamine or other "mediators of inflammation" as in cases of allergies, can start the process.

Stings from insects, scratches, small scrapes or wounds, all can be enough to cause the release of these inflammatory mediators, which start the itch-scratch cycle. What makes a hot spot different from another self-induced skin lesion known as an acral lick granuloma, is that the hot spot is usually created within hours. The acral lick granuloma takes days to months to form.

Also, the hot spot can occur anywhere on the body, and is less likely to occur on the limbs, where acral lick granuloma tends to form mainly on the limbs. Both of these conditions however, can be started from the release of inflammatory mediators in the area on the skin affected.

Treatment of the hot spot usually involves clipping the hair around the area of skin affected. This region is then cleansed with mild soap and water, and topical cortisone products, or anti-histamine products are applied. The main emphasis of treatment is geared towards keeping the dog from scratching at the area, as this is what started the hot spot in the first place.

Sometimes covering the area if possible, or putting a sock over the dog's foot to prevent scratching is advised. Clipping the nails helps as well. If an underlying cause is found such as an allergic condition, treatment with oral medication is then advised. Usually this is associated with multiple hot spot lesions. Single small lesions tend to respond well to topical therapy alone.

http://www.vet4petz.com/articles/hot_spots.htm
http://www.prodoggroomingsupplies.com/dog_hot_spots-3.htm
Your Pet's Skin & Coat Health

One common malady that occurs with temperature changes is problems with a dog or cat's skin and coat.

Let's define "healthy skin and coat" so we're clear about what is considered "normal." Don't confuse "normal" with "common."

Every day in my practice I see pets that have unhealthy skin and coats (usually due to improper nutrition) - so less than optimum is actually quite "common." I've often thought a normal skin/coat condition was actually quite uncommon! Using your senses of touch, vision and smell you will begin to recognize the character of a "normal" or "healthy" skin and coat
http://www.petcaretips.net/skin_coat_health.html

Answer 2

It could just be a "hot spot" these are common in some breeds (English Bulldogs for example). However hair loss and skin irritation could be much more. Ringworm and mange can cause both symptoms. Take your pup to the vet to make sure and hope its just an allergy.

Answer 3

it sounds like hot spots/food allergy. but the hair loss seem a bit odd..

for peace of mind, please go to a vet. nothing beats it.. you can have all the best advices in the world, but it is only when you go t a vet that you could be sure of what really is going on. theyre the professionals..

and besides, the earlier the condition is detected, the more effective treatment is. a vet checkup is a small price to pay for your dog's long time over all health. :)

Answer 4

Yes - a vet, and only a vet, can help you. No one on here has examined the dog, so please don't take any notice of any treatment they may 'prescribe' to you!

It could be flea allergic dermatitis, or some other form of allergy, or it could be a hot spot (area of localised skin irritation). All these things require attention from a vet.

Chalice

Answer 5

could be food allergies... try not to feed any grains...oats, rice, flour, corn... go for a higher protein diet.
That might mean taking her off whatever dog food you are feeding her... and feed her low fat cottage cheese... and raw meat... cut up some stewing meat...or rabbit or fish and see what happens.

Answer 6

sounds like flea infestation and or allergies .. make sure she has no fleas, try changing her food to a high quality dry kibble ( lamb and rice based) see what happens after a week....

Answer 7

you could try tea tree shampoo/ oil to sooth th skin and it would stop any itching.