Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 12/1/2011

Question
My teacup yorkie is 6 years old and weighs 3 lbs. She has recently developed a skin problem that leaves her skin with brown spots (that can be scratched off, but cause bleeding unless done very carefully), has developed bald spots, and has to be bathed almost daily because of the oil on her hair.  The vet has given me two different shampoos to use, but neither seems to be helping.  Do you have any suggestions on how to clear up this skin problem?  I appreciate any help you can give me.

Answer
The spots you are describing are probably remnants of pustules caused by a bacterial skin infection.  Besides the shampoos, you probably need to give an antibiotic against Staph bacteria for 3-4 weeks.  There is always a reason for a skin infection, like an allergy to environmental antigens or to food antigens.  Your vet may need to do some further testing to see why the dog gets these infections.