Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 8/7/2008

Question
we have a 10 year old part dotsun /chihuaua.spelling not great.but she scratches alot and does not have fleas.we have checked.NONE.we bathe her with oatmeal shampoo and give her brewers yeast with garlic everyday.none of these things are helping.she is an inside dog.she was fixed many years ago.we feed her beneful dog food.we give her milk bone treats when she goes outside to do her business.can you please suggest something for her please.    thank you

Answer
Not all dogs that scratch have fleas.  There are many dogs that get skin allergies to things like pollens, grasses, and molds in the environment. Ask your vet if she can have a short course of steroids to see if that stops the scratching.  If it does, then the dog is most likely allergic.