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My dog is scratching and licking constantly. We first thought a food allergy but have tried numerous brands of grain free (including the blue buffalo brand), I only bathe him monthly to avoid drying his skin out but wipe him down every night since he has free range of a large yard. We have tried fish oil but he gets bad diarrhea. I just don't know what else to do and I feel so bad for him

My dog is scratching and licking constantly. We first thought a food allergy but have tried numerous brands of grain free (including the blue buffalo brand), I only bathe him monthly to avoid drying his skin out but wipe him down every night since he has free range of a large yard. We have tried fish oil but he gets bad diarrhea. I just don't know what else to do and I feel so bad for him

Updated On December 9th, 2016

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

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Poor pup! It sounds like you are trying a lot to help him. He could have environmental allergies, fleas, or mites causing the itching. If he isn't up to date on his flea treatment, he will need a spot on treatment such as Advantage or Revolution. You will need to disinfect the environment as well. If he is up to date on his flea treatment, I recommend taking him into the vet for an exam. The vet can do blood tests and skin scrapings diagnose allergies or mites. Once the cause of the itching is found, the vet can prescribe the appropriate treatment. I recommend taking him into the vet tomorrow during normal business hours.

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