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Why does my dog have itchy hairless patches and red sores on her back?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Dachshund miniature | Female | spayed | 11 lbs

My dog has hairless patches om her back and now under her tail. She and the other dogs lick the sores a lot. It is pink and red and it looks like very small holes in some places. Before I cleaned it, there were small patches of hardened pus and when I removed it the hair would also come out. It is also itchy and sensitive. Any ideas?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Lauren Jones VMD

Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

Veterinarian

Published on July 11th, 2017

Poor Dappie! Hair loss, itching and skin irritation can be due to a number of issues, such as allergies, ringworm or mange. Any of these conditions can also lead to the onset of a bacterial skin infection, particularly since Dappie and your other dogs have been licking her skin lesions. Dappie should take a trip to her vet for further evaluation of her skin to determine the most appropriate treatment. Until you can get to the vet, be sure that she is receiving a high quality flea and tick preventative (such as Nexgard, Bravecto, or K9 Advantix II) regularly because fleas could exacerbate any underlying skin issue. You can also try putting an e-collar (cone) on her to prevent her from causing further skin irritation. A bath in an antimicrobial shampoo may be helpful, but her vet will be able to prescribe more effective medications. I hope that all goes well!
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