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Why is my dog itching, biting skin, has rash & eye discharge?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | unneutered | 6 years and 4 months old | 70 lbs

My dog is developing an issue where he is literally biting on his skin and ripping out the hairs. We killed the fleas. Washed him every week for the past 3 weeks but he seems to still have this agitation with his skin, especially around his legs and arms. He is also developing a red rash around his paws and in-between his toes and is knowing at it. Also he producing a lot of "eye boogers" (mucus) around his eyes. Help!

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Makenzie Kurth, DVM

Answered By Makenzie Kurth, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 8th, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. I’m so sorry to hear about Titan. He definitely should see his vet with itching that severe. A mite or severe allergy are first on my list.

Allergies commonly appear at age 2-4 but can develope at any time. If that is the case, they are usually environmental but if you’ve switched food or added a new treat in the last few weeks, that could be a cause too. Finally, new shampoo, change in laundry soap, etc can also cause this to flare up.

Treatment varies depending on cause but may include medicated shampoo, or oral medications, and addressing underlying allergies of needed.

It is also possible that this is due to mites, ringworm, or an auto-immune problem.

Bottom line is, all of these things require a vet visit and prescription medications to treat so head on in as soon as you can.

Best of luck to you and Titan!
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