Lifetime health & preventative care
Itching, sore skin & recurrent skin problems
Recognise changes and arrange assessment without guessing the cause.
What to look for
Repeated scratching, licking or chewing can damage skin. Notice redness, dandruff, sores, moist “hot spots”, unusual odour, crusting or changes in pigmentation. Recurrent ear or skin problems also deserve investigation. A brief occasional scratch in an otherwise comfortable dog differs from persistent or disruptive itching.
Several causes can look alike
Fleas or mites, allergies, bacterial or yeast infection, contact irritation and underlying medical conditions can cause overlapping signs. Appearance alone cannot identify the cause. Skin colour changes may follow inflammation but should not be used to diagnose an allergy or hormonal problem.
Useful observations
Record affected areas, timing, recent walks or products, changes in food and parasite protection. Take clear photographs over time without delaying care. Tell your vet about other pets or people with skin symptoms. Keep packaging for any recently used product. Avoid repeated unplanned diet changes that can make investigation harder.
Next steps
Book veterinary assessment for persistent itching, recurrent problems or unexplained skin changes. Seek prompt advice for painful, spreading or wet sores, pus, marked swelling or a dog who is unwell. Do not apply human creams, essential oils or leftover medicines without advice. If a prescribed plan is not helping, contact the practice rather than layering treatments. Flea guidance explains one possible contributor.
Continue your care plan
Grooming & Body Care · Keeping my dog healthy · New symptoms: find the right next step
New lumps and changing skin
Ask your vet to assess a new lump or one that changes. Size, softness or lack of pain cannot establish whether it is harmless. Note its location, when first noticed and any growth, bleeding, discharge or interference with movement. A photograph beside a ruler can help if your dog accepts it; do not squeeze, puncture or repeatedly press the lump. Seek advice promptly for rapid change, soreness or broken skin, and use emergency guidance if your dog is seriously unwell.
Evidence and review
General information, not diagnosis or an individual treatment plan. Sources include veterinary professional guidance, veterinary charities and relevant regional parasite organisations. Clinical recommendations need individual veterinary interpretation.
Practical content enhancement: 11 October 2026. Evidence for this enhancement: PDSA: home health checks
About this guidanceReview details and sources
Evidence and review
Reviewed 2 October 2026 · Review sooner if advice, distribution or requirements change.