Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 7/1/2010

Question
I just got a American pitbull terrier and she has a bad rash all over her body. I give her science diet puppy food. I am nervous because she couldbe in pain. I took her to my vet and he didn't know what it is. The rash is big bumps that are that are bright red. What do you think could be wrong with my puppy.  She is only 14 weeks old. And if dogs get colds can we do anything to help them.

Answer
In a young puppy these are either pustules from a bacterial skin infection or sarcoptic mange.  I would recommend a strong antibacterial shampoo and oral antibiotics for this pup.  I would also have the puppy dipped in either phosmet or amitraz at the vet for sarcoptic mange.