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Updated on September 23rd, 2025
My dog was groomed yesterday. She has been scratching ever since to the point she has her skin on neck, behind ears and on body all red and spotty. Why and what can I do?
5 Answers
Answered By Laura E. McRae
Veterinary Technician
Published on April 26th, 2015
Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA
Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist
Published on May 13th, 2019
Some dogs can have sensitivities to shampoos or perfumes. Sometimes they can get irritation from the infection. You can try a soothing dog shampoo or topical spray from the pet store, but if he is itching a lot and causing trauma to the skin, then he should be evaluated by a vet to see if there is infection. If there is infection, it needs to be treated with antibiotics. At the least, they can prescribe some anti-inflammatories to help with the itch.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on August 23rd, 2017
It sounds like he is having a potential allergic reaction to some of the products used at the groomer. I would recommend calling your vet again to see if they can dispense some allergy medication to help stop the itch quickly and get Dino some relief. If he has scabs or yellow crusting on his skin also, then he will need a topical and/or oral antibiotic as well to clear things up.
You can also try using an oatmeal based or aloe based dog shampoo to provide some topical relief. I hope that Dino feels better soon. Take care.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA
Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist
Published on July 29th, 2019
Razor burn is a common cause of licking and itching after grooming. You can use an OTC hydrocortisone cream to help with some of the itch. You can also have Jack wear a shirt to cover the area since continued licking will delay healing and could cause a skin infection to set in.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Katie S
Certified Dog Trainer
Published on April 24th, 2016
Dogs can easily get irritated skin or razor burn from clippers. Its not always the groomers fault as some dogs aren't used to being shaved and/or have highly sensitive skin. Skin rashes do not happen instantly, and after the dog left the appointment may show signs. You should notify the groomer right away- is it possible that there was a skin condition there before that was not noticeable as it was covered by hair, they may have forgot to tell you. Or the groomer may have used to short of a cut and next time should make a note to use a different blade to prevent this in the future. Be sure to prevent your dog from licking and chewing as they can cause the rash to spread and get much worse. DO NOT WET IT as this can irritate it further. You can try an OTC soothing ointment-just make sure its ok for dogs, and can use a dry cold pack (with a towel as a buffer) to help ease the burn a little bit. It will take a few days to see some relief.
12Pet Parents found this answer helpful