My dog's itchy skin is flaky after medicated shampoo. Is it normal?

Hello! A picture of the lesion would help us give more helpful input. However, if Shiloh's skin is flaky and itchy, it could be a number of things, including superficial pyoderma, demodicosis, sarcoptes, yeast dermatitis, and ringworm. It is difficult to narrow down the causes without doing an exam on her or at least seeing the lesions, but it is very likely some sort of infection (whether bacterial, yeast, or parasitic) so I do recommend bringing Shiloh to the vet. Your vet will be able to determine the cause, and Shiloh will likely need prescription medication (antibiotics, antifungals, or anti-parasite, along with possible medicated shampoo) to clear the issue. Depending on the severity of the issue on her skin, it very likely might not improve without prescription meds, so it is worth having her seen as soon as possible. Additionally, depending on her age, she may have some underlying condition that might be making her skin susceptible to infection, such as allergies or hypothyroidism. I hope this helps.

Yes, some of these shampoos can cause excessive dryness of the skin. It can take a few weeks to get back to normal. You may consider a topical application like commercially available emu oil sprays for pets, fish oil supplements (also available Online for pets), as well as alternative flea and rock medication and a good moisturizing pet shampoo like hydrapearls.

The medicated shampoo must have contact time. You need to lather it on and then leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing. You also need to be bathing in this fashion every 2-3 days until the skin is looking better. Skin issues like this take a few weeks to clear up so you won't see an immediate response.

If you bought it over the counter (OTC), no prescription is needed. Directions for use should be on the container. Do not bathe more often than directed since this may make the itching worse and can dry out the skin. Try to determine the underlying cause of the itch. This may require a visit and exam with your veterinarian. Causes may include skin infection, external parasites, allergies or food sensitivities.

I would wait 24 hours or so after he was groomed to be bathedagain. This is because frequent bathing can dry out the skin and cause more irritation. If his itching continues after one bath he may have an infection and need to be seen by your veterinarian. You could also try and oatmeal-based shampoo as it can be soothing for itchy skin.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This looks like a focal infection. You can try to use a medicated shampoo containing chlorhexidine twice weekly for 2 weeks. If there is no improvement or in the meantime this appears to be getting worse, have him evaluated by a veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. Good luck and have a good night!

That area of Albie looks inflamed! If he did not have these lesions yesterday, it may be a reaction to the shampoo. Rewash him in a hypoallergenic shampoo and rinse him very well. Over the counter antihistamines may also help the itching. You may also consider taking him to the veterinarian's office as they will have stronger medications that will work faster to make the itching go away. I hope Albie gets comfortable fast!