Expert QA
My dog seems to have a mild skin allergy -- scratching and biting at her hindquarters and paws. My pet seems uncomfortable, what should I do?
From the Editors of The Dog Daily
If your dog is scratching and biting at its hindquarters and paws often, then she could have any number of problems. A big concern is that a bacterial skin infection has set in, so you might want to check back with your veterinarian, or even consult another pet health specialist, to rule out that possibility.
Allergies result when the immune system overreacts to something. Identifying what that “something” is can be a challenge. Possibilities include pollen, dust, shampoo or food. Dogs will also sometimes bite and scratch right after their coats have been clipped. Hypoallergenic shampoos for dogs are available, as are foods meant for canines with allergies.
Major manufacturers are now offering veterinary formula pet foods that target skin and coat problems. Ask your veterinarian about those. You might also ask your veterinarian about anti-inflammatory medications, but those will only temporarily relieve your pet’s apparent discomfort. It’s better to have an expert fully diagnose the cause of the allergy or other health problem before moving forward with any treatments.