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Poodle with chronic skin problems

My poodle mix has chronic skin infections. He’s taken Baytrel and Flagyl over 3 years. Had neg. ANA and is fed Innova food. Has what appears to be seborrhea and sometimes has reddened bumps that he licks. Tried Malasab Shampoo, and other antibacterial shampoos. Currently have him on immunity boost vitamins, avoid snacks like beggin strips jerky treats ect.

I want him to be really healthy. ANY Suggestions? He does not scracth but he does have an odor and I can tell when he needs Flagyl b/c he smells like bread. Also has chronic ear infections.

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5 Responses to “Poodle with chronic skin problems”

  1. T. L. Medinger, DVM - Aurora, IL says:

    I would recommend an examination by a dermatologist/allergist. This could be a combination infection (bacteria and yeast) potentially exacerbated by a low-grade allergy.

    T. L. Medinger, DVM, MS, DACVIM (SAIM)
    VCA Aurora Animal Hospital
    Aurora, IL

  2. Mike Keem, DVM - E. Aurora, NY says:

    My first recommendation is to find a veterinarian that specializes in diseases of the skin….a veterinary dermatologist. He or she will be able to help you. The first thing I do is eliminate fleas as a possible source of your pet’s discomfort. I next will perform skin scrapings looking for mites (Demodex/Sarcoptes, etc.) as a source of the dogs discomfort. A fungal culture may also be done to rule out the possibility of ringworm infection (dermatophytosis). If these things can be ruled out, then cytology needs to be done to eliminate the presence/possibility of bacteria (Staph intermedius) or yeast (Malassezia pachydermatitis) as the cause of the problem. If they are found and eliminated and the dermatitis continues, a strict properly performed food trial/elimination diet needs to be done for 10 to 12 weeks. If the dermatitis continues, then allergy testing by a veterinarian familiar with this procedure needs to be done. If the problem is a yeast infection (Malassezia), ketoconazole orally along with antifungal shampoos like Ketochlor or Malaseb may help control the problem. Flagyl (metronidazole) rarely plays any part in controlling such infections, while Baytril is a very broad spectrum antibiotic and should not be a fist choice for treating skin infections.

    I hope this helps get your little dog on the path to relief or even a cure.

    Mike Keem, DVM
    member AAVD
    Aurora Pet Hospital
    East Aurora, NY

  3. Dyanna McCain - LA, CA says:

    It sounds to me that your dog has an immune disorder. I would make sure that the vitamins you are giving are from food base. Standard Process is a great resource. You are right by giving her the immune support but again, you need to check your source. I would add a liver and skin support as well. Typically skin disorders come from within.
    So, it is important to focus on her liver and immune system. I may also suggest that you remove all grain and potato from her diet as well.

    Dyanna McCain DVetHom.
    Holistic Animal Healing
    Los Angeles, CA

  4. Anonymous says:

    You may want to research sebaceous adenitis. This is a skin disorder that is common to poodles. You may see that your dog’s symptoms are very similar to those associated with this disorder. Then I would find a veterinary dermatologist, they can do testing for this and other skin issues.

  5. cazrelda says:

    I have an 8 year old standard poodle with the same symptoms, and have tried all the things mentioned in this post. My vet recently prescribed Nizoral tablets, and Triocil antiseptic & fungicidal shampoo.
    The odour has almost gone with the exception of a slight odour from the ears, but the dogs coat is not oily now. 100% improvement on her previous condition.

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