What should I check if my dog’s skin is red, crusty, and sore? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
If your dog’s skin is red, crusty and sore, there could be several causes, including mange, allergies, skin infection or irritation from licking, scratching or something in the environment. The main things to check are where the problem is, whether it’s spreading, and whether your dog is otherwise well.
Things To Check
1. Check exactly where the skin changes are showing up, such as around the ears, face, elbows, belly, paws or body.
2. Look closely for hair loss, scabs, crusts, broken skin, damp patches, spots or a strong smell.
3. Feel the area gently to see if it seems warm, swollen or painful.
4. Watch whether your dog is scratching, rubbing, licking or chewing the area more than usual.
5. Think about any recent changes, such as new bedding, shampoo, treats, flea exposure, grooming, walking routes or contact with other animals.
6. Check whether any other pets or people in the home have itchy skin, which can sometimes be relevant.
7. Note whether your dog seems bright and normal, or whether they’re off colour, tired, in pain or eating less.
Common Causes
Mange is one possible cause, especially if the skin is very itchy, crusty and patchy, or if the ears, face, elbows or paws are involved. Other common causes include allergies, flea bite reactions, bacterial skin infections and yeast overgrowth.
Irritation from constant licking or scratching can also make the skin red and sore, even if the original trigger was mild. Less commonly, a skin problem can be linked to other health issues, so it’s worth keeping an eye on the pattern rather than guessing the cause.
What To Do
Keep the area clean and dry, and try to stop your dog making it worse by licking or scratching if you can. Keep a note of where the sore skin is, how quickly it changes, and whether anything seems to trigger it.
Avoid using human creams or strong home remedies unless your vet has said they’re safe. If you can, take clear photos over a couple of days, as that can help show whether it’s spreading or settling.
If you’ve recently changed grooming products, food, bedding or flea control routines, think about whether the timing fits. A calm, consistent routine is often more useful than trying lots of different things at once.
When To Contact A Vet
Book a vet visit if the sore skin is spreading, very itchy, smelly, wet, bleeding or obviously painful, or if your dog seems unwell. You should also get advice if the problem keeps coming back, affects several pets in the home, or isn’t improving with simple care.
Products That May Help
For dogs with skin and coat concerns, a gentle grooming and washing routine may help you keep the coat comfortable while you monitor changes and follow your vet’s advice if needed.
Related Questions
Could mange be causing my dog’s crusty skin?
Why is my dog scratching so much all of a sudden?
When should I worry about a red, sore patch on my dog’s skin?
Atlas is here to support owners with practical, easy-to-understand guidance. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you're concerned about your animal's health, symptoms worsen, or something doesn't feel right, contact your vet.