Expert: Kaza - 1/12/2009

Question
My 6 month old bichon has recently begun to bite and scratch the top of his back legs (hip area) to the extent his hair has fallen out and he has scabs. We have not changed his diet and bathe him every 2 weeks or so using bob martin shampoo.do you know what could be causing the problem?

Answer
Firstly Bob Martin isnt what I would use for this type of coat and this is far too frequent. A good brush is far more efficient for the coat and skin.
1) Firstly ensure that you have treated the possibility of fleas and worms every 12 weeks.
2)Diet is very important especially as he is now becoming a young adult male, suggest a raw diet or BARF diet that is followed correctly, may commercial companies like bravo foods, (USA) The honest kitchen (USA) , Prizechoice foods (UK) and Nature Diet (UK) offer some excellent natural diets. I use prize choice regularly.
3)Skin can become hot if matted and this will itch check for matts as his undercoat comes in.
4)Wash only once every two months but brush and comb daily.
5)contact www.bichonhotel.co.uk , they stock neem oil shampoo which is the only recommended shampoo for skin conditions in all dogs.Its natural and safe.

www.eurobichons.com