Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 10/31/2007

Question
Hi, my 4 year old male Pomeranian suddenly started itching his sides ferociously with his back paws about a week ago. When he first started itching his skin was still normal color and no flakes. After days now, it is red and raw, no hair loss though. The poor little guy just looks miserable. Do you know of what it could be and what I could do at home to stop the itching? He has been on a new dogfood for a month now with no ill effects. And in the last 2 weeks I've been giving him some canned food. Could these be causing that? Which one do you suppose? Any information would be appreciated. Thanks!

Answer
Some dogs do have food sensitivities.  But there are many diseases that itch.  Have you seen any fleas?  Has the dog been around any other dogs or cats? Are there any pustules? Have your vet do a skin scraping for mange and if it is clear, then give the dog some steroids to relieve the itch and some antibiotics for a possible skin infection.  I would also recommend changing back to the oiginal food.