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Why does my dog have crusty, smelly yellow scabs on its legs?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pekingese | Female | spayed | 7 years and 7 months old

My Pekingese has some crusty yellow scab like crust on her back legs only, what could it be. It kind of smells a little too.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 14th, 2017

Hi there and thanks for posting your question and pictures. It looks like Maggie may have a skin infection or a type of dermatitis called seborrheic dermatitis in which the oily glands of the skin are producing too much oil and causing irritation to the skin. There are certain shampoos to treat both conditions. Benzoyl Peroxide treats the seborrheic dermatitis and a chlorhexidine based shampoo would help treat a skin infection. I would have Maggie's vet take a look at this in order to prescribe the most appropriate shampoo and possible oral antibiotic. Please feel free to contact me with any other questions / concerns. I am also available via consultation.

9Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM
Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident
Hi there! Thanks for entrusting us with Maggie's health. This could be dermatitis, possibly due to a bacterial or yeast infection. This could be to an underlying allergy to either fleas, her food or something in the environment. She would benefit from been evaluated by your veterinarian to figure out the exact type of infection affecting her so that it can be treated. At the very least you could consider bathing her with an antibacterial/antifungal shampoo you may get at your local pet store. If doing the latter, bathe her twice weekly for at least 2 weeks. Good luck with your girl!
7Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on February 11th, 2018
Hello. Thank you for using PetCoach. Sorry to hear that Lola is having this issue.

It looks like she has a bacterial skin infection. How or why she got it, I don't know. This could also be an allergy to fleas or an allergic reaction to something in the environment.

I suggest you get Lola to your vet for an exam. It's not an emergency but if you could get her there in the next few days that would be great. She will likely need some oral antibiotics to get this to clear up completely.

In the meantime you can wash her with this medicated shampoo.

https://www.pet-supermarket.co.uk/Coatex-Medicated-Shampoo/p/I9069388

Hope this helps. Best wishes!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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