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Updated on September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua (Smooth Coat) | Female | 6 lbs
Hello.. my mother’s chihuahua has dry, itchy skin, hair loss on her back & tail, and has a foul smell!! What causes that?! What can I do to help her?!
2 Answers

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on November 15th, 2019
Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on December 9th, 2019
This is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. The skin pigment goes from pink to black due to chronic inflammation. Most of the time this is due to yeast on the skin. I suggest you use this medicated spray once a day on the affected areas and see if that helps.
( https://www.allivet.com/p-6677-douxo-chlorhexidine-micro-emulsion-spray-for-dogs-and-cats-68-oz.aspx?SearchTerm=duoxo+Auto )
Also bathe her once a week with this medicated shampoo - lather, let it stay on the skin/coat for 10-15 minutes and then rinse. The contact time is important so be sure to leave it on.
( https://www.allivet.com/p-6692-douxo-chlorhexidine-shampoo-for-dogs-and-cats.aspx?SearchTerm=chlorhex+Auto )
Hope this helps. Best wishes.
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